African Academy of Science and Chrisland University Delegation Visits Former President Obasanjo
In a bid to strengthen educational and scientific collaborations, a distinguished delegation from the African Academy of Science (AAS) and Chrisland University visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo at his Abeokuta residence.
UBA CHIDINMA 
In a bid to strengthen educational and scientific collaborations, a distinguished delegation from the African Academy of Science (AAS) and Chrisland University visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo at his Abeokuta residence. The visit, which took place on September 15, 2024, emphasized the critical role of science and academia in shaping Nigeria's future.
The delegation, consisting of prominent Nigerian academics including AAS Fellows, was warmly received by President Obasanjo. The visit marked both a recognition of his longstanding commitment to education and a forward-looking discussion on enhancing partnerships between academic institutions, government, and the private sector to advance scientific research and technological innovation.
Professor Friday Okonofua, Secretary-General of the African Academy of Science, led the discussion. He stressed the importance of science and technology in addressing Nigeria’s major challenges, including health care and sustainable development. Professor Okonofua highlighted the need for robust collaborations to drive impactful research and innovation.
During the visit, Professor Okonofua informed President Obasanjo about the upcoming 15th General Assembly and Scientific Conference of the African Academy of Science, set to be held in Abuja from December 8th to 11th, 2024. The conference will serve as a significant platform for discussing advanced scientific developments and fostering continental collaboration.
The delegation also reminisced about President Obasanjo’s pivotal role in establishing the Academy’s endowment fund with a $5 million donation during his presidency in 2001. This endowment has been instrumental in supporting groundbreaking research across Africa.
In his remarks, President Obasanjo commended the African Academy of Science and Chrisland University for their dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. He emphasized the need for a Research Technology and Innovation Centre and urged Nigeria to embrace global trends, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), to remain competitive internationally.
The visit concluded with expressions of gratitude from the delegation for President Obasanjo’s enduring support for education and scientific development. The interaction reinforced his legacy as a proponent of knowledge and innovation, setting the stage for future collaborations to advance Nigeria’s scientific and technological landscape.
The delegation included Professor Vincent Odigie, Professor Hilary Inyang, Professor Olukayode Amund, and Professor Catherine Falade from AAS, along with Chrisland University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Peace Babalola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Olatunde Farombi, Registrar Mr. Samuel Omotoso, and Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CONAS), Professor Raphael Mordi.
