ORIDSAN Holds 2nd International Conference at MAU, Inducts VC Prof. Umar and Prof. Danjuma

The Operations Research Institute for Decision Sciences and Analytics of Nigeria, ORIDSAN, has held its 2nd International Hybrid Conference at Modibbo Adama University, MAU, Yola, with a call for greater application of Operations Research, Decision Sciences and data analytics in addressing contemporary developmental challenges.

The three-day conference, which commenced on Wednesday, September 2 and ended on Friday, September 4, 2026, was organised under the theme: “Operations Research for Sustainable Development in Emerging Economies: Navigating Complexity in the Digital Age.”

The conference brought together academics, researchers, policymakers, industry practitioners and students from within and outside Nigeria to deliberate on the application of Operations Research and data-driven approaches to solving complex societal problems.

In his welcome address, the President of ORIDSAN, Dr. Umar Muhammad Modibbo, appreciated the participants, dignitaries and representatives of the Vice-Chancellor for honouring the invitation and attending the conference.

Dr. Modibbo emphasised the increasing importance of Operations Research, Decision Sciences and data-related fields in modern decision-making, urging participants to take full advantage of the conference by acquiring new knowledge, sharing experiences and establishing meaningful collaborations that would translate research into practical solutions.

Declaring the conference open, the Vice-Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University, Professor Ibrahim Umar, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Professor Aliyu Bawuro Mustapha, welcomed members of ORIDSAN and all participants to the University.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the institute for finding Modibbo Adama University worthy of hosting its second international conference, describing the event as an important platform for intellectual engagement, research collaboration and knowledge sharing.

He further assured the institute of the University's continued readiness to support initiatives that promote research, innovation and activities capable of making meaningful impact on society.

The Guest of Honour, H.E. Rt Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri CON, was represented by his Special Adviser on Communications, Research and Documentation, Dr. Akeweta Emmanuel, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Governor, highlighting the importance of Operations Research and evidence-based approaches to development planning and decision-making.

The conference featured a keynote address, lead paper presentations, technical sessions and interactive discussions on various aspects of Operations Research, Decision Sciences, data analytics and their applications.

The keynote address was delivered by the President of the African Federation of Operational Research Societies, AFROS, Professor Youssef Masmoudi, while a lead paper was presented by Mr. Shoyinka Shodunke, Executive and Chief Information Officer of MTN Group.

The presentations provided participants with insights into the growing importance of analytical methods, technology and data-driven approaches in addressing complex organisational and societal challenges.

Several other scholars and researchers presented papers on different areas of Operations Research and related disciplines, while participants engaged the presenters through questions, comments and interactive discussions.

One of the major highlights of the conference was the induction of new members into ORIDSAN, ranging from Fellows to Associate Members.

Among the distinguished personalities inducted as Fellows of the Institute were the Vice-Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University, Yola Professor Ibrahim Umar, and the Director-General, Adamawa State Debt Management Agency, Professor Ibrahim Danjuma, in recognition of their contributions to academia, research and the advancement of knowledge.

The Vice-Chancellor was represented at the induction ceremony by Ms. Chebia Gunduri, who received the fellowship on his behalf.

Also inducted was the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Mr. Muhammad Mijinyawa, alongside other scholars, researchers and professionals who were admitted into various categories of membership, from Fellowship to Associate Membership.

The induction formed a significant part of the conference's closing activities and underscored the institute's commitment to expanding its professional community and promoting excellence in Operations Research, Decision Sciences and Analytics.

In his vote of thanks, the Registrar of ORIDSAN, Dr. Joseph David Olusegun, expressed appreciation to the Management of Modibbo Adama University for providing the venue and necessary support for the successful hosting of the conference.

Dr. Olusegun also commended the participants, keynote and lead paper presenters, government representatives, dignitaries, members of the Local Organising Committee and other stakeholders for their contributions towards the success of the event.

The three-day conference ended on Friday, September 4, with the induction ceremony, group photograph and other closing activities.

The 3rd International Conference of ORIDSAN is scheduled to take place in Abuja in 2027.

The Operations Research Institute for Decision Sciences and Analytics of Nigeria, ORIDSAN, is a professional and interdisciplinary institute dedicated to advancing Operations Research, Decision Sciences and Data Analytics for improved decision-making and problem-solving.

ORIDSAN is affiliated with the International Federation of Operational Research Societies, IFORS, and the African Federation of Operational Research Societies, AFROS, thereby connecting Nigerian professionals and researchers with the wider international Operations Research community.