Prof. Abdul-Raheem Calls for Environmental Reform at UNILORIN 262nd Inaugural Lecture
Professor Adenike Modinah Abdul-Raheem advocates for a comprehensive environmental management system and increased funding for research during her inaugural lecture at the University of Ilorin.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a compelling address delivered during the 262nd Inaugural Lecture at the University of Ilorin on July 11, 2024, Professor Adenike Modinah Abdul-Raheem, the Head of the Department of Chemistry, urged for immediate implementation of a robust environmental management system.
The lecture, titled “The Sojourn of a Physical Environmental Chemist Exploring Environmental Impact in the Life of a Man,” marked a historic moment as Prof. Abdul-Raheem became the first female Professor of Chemistry at the institution.
Prof. Abdul-Raheem advocated for a comprehensive punishment and reward system to encourage environmental sanitation and stressed the importance of extending this system to higher education institutions. She emphasized that such measures would foster a cleaner, more peaceful, and economically vibrant society.
The Professor, who previously served as Deputy Director of the UNILORIN Renewable Energy Centre (UREC), called for increased government funding and provision of state-of-the-art equipment to advance research in Physical Environmental Chemistry. This, she said, would enhance infrastructure, monitoring, and pollution control.
Highlighting the need for functional Environmental Protection Agencies (EPAs), Prof. Abdul-Raheem urged for better collaboration among government agencies, local communities, and environmental bodies to tackle soil, water, and air pollution effectively.
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She also advocated for industry-academia partnerships to develop biodegradable plastics and protect marine ecosystems, and encouraged Chemistry Departments to collaborate with international organizations such as the United Nations to enhance environmental research.
Prof. Abdul-Raheem called for interdisciplinary research involving chemists, biologists, engineers, and other professionals to address complex environmental challenges and advance sustainable energy solutions.
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Addressing local government councils, she emphasized the importance of community engagement and collaboration with local higher education institutions to promote sustainable practices.
In her concluding remarks, Prof. Abdul-Raheem urged for the creation of hygienic environments and strategies to eliminate open defecation, which she believes is crucial for public health.
The lecture was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, and attended by prominent figures including former Vice Chancellors, colleagues, and students.
For further information, contact the University Registrar at +234 810-848-3222 or email registrar@unilorin.edu.ng.
