Prof. Francisca Oladipo Becomes First Nigerian Elected to CODATA Executive Committee

In a significant achievement for the Nigerian academic community and the global scientific landscape, Professor Francisca Onaolapo Oladipo has been elected as the first Nigerian to serve on the Executive Committee of the Committee on Data (CODATA).

CODATA is an elite global body under the International Science Council (ISC) dedicated to improving the quality, reliability, and accessibility of data for the advancement of science and technology.

A Distinguished Academic Profile

Professor Oladipo currently serves as the Vice-Chancellor of Thomas Adewumi University (TAU), Oko, Kwara State. Before her current role, she was the pioneer Director of Quality Assurance at the Federal University Lokoja (FUL). Her election to the CODATA Executive Committee is a recognition of her extensive expertise in data science, digital health, and academic leadership. 

Beyond her academic credentials, she holds the traditional title of Yeye Atunluse of Oko-Irese Kingdom, reflecting her impact both in the ivory tower and her community. 

Professor Oladipo’s election places Nigeria at the forefront of global data governance discussions. As a member of the Executive Committee, she will contribute to international policies regarding Open Science, data ethics, and the strategic management of scientific data across borders. 

This historic appointment is expected to facilitate stronger collaborations between Nigerian researchers and international scientific organizations, further driving innovation and data-driven development within the African continent. 

The academic community, including leadership from Thomas Adewumi University and Federal University Lokoja, has hailed the election as a "historic milestone." Stakeholders noted that her presence on the CODATA board reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence in the global digital and scientific economy.