Professor Abubakar Sani Sambo presents the HLF–Umaru Shehu Lifetime Achievement Award to Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, FAS, as Professor Jubrilla Dahiru Amin and Chief Mrs. Patricia Otuedon-Arawore stand alongside.
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An accomplished Geophysicist and past Vice-Chancellor of Nigeria’s premier university, Abel Idowu Olayinka has been through the mill of academia, research, and development in both the public and private sectors, with in-depth knowledge of the characteristics, prospects, and challenges of higher education in Africa.
As a two-term Head of the Department of Geology, he was involved in fund generation from alumni, corporate institutions, and friends, the proceeds of which were used to upgrade teaching, learning, and research facilities, as well as the environment at large.
In his capacity as Dean of the Postgraduate School, our Celebrant established a Scholarship Scheme and Teaching and Research Assistantships for postgraduate students; Overseas Conference Grants for postgraduate teachers; and co-edited, with 31 professor-colleagues, two editions of Methodology of Basic and Applied Research.
As Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), he facilitated the implementation of the University’s Strategic Plan, establishing enduring structures to deepen good governance, encourage scholarship and research, and improve staff welfare.
Among other strategic appointments, his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan witnessed the establishment of 21 academic departments and four faculties, namely: Renewable Natural Resources; Economics and Management Sciences; Environmental Design and Management; and Multidisciplinary Studies, as well as the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships).
With fellowships of numerous national and international professional bodies, and many publications to his credit, Professor Abel Olayinka was the Convener of the First International Conference on Research and Innovation Management in West Africa; Foundation President of the West African Research and Innovation Management Association for ten years; Board Chairman of the African Research Universities Alliance; and Member of the Council of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, London.
He is currently the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of West Midlands Open University; a Member of the Council of Adeleke University, Ede; and Board Chairman of Multi-Verse Mining & Exploration Nigeria Plc.
He is happily married with adult children to Dr. Eyiwumi Bolutito Olayinka, a Reader in French and Gender Studies at the University of Ibadan.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we are pleased to invite Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka to receive the HLF–Umaru Shehu Lifetime Achievement Award for Consistent Advocacy for Positive Change within the University System.
Hearty Congratulations, Sir!