Statistics Is The Language Of Evidence, Not Just A Field Of Study — UI DVC

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, fspsp, has described statistics as “the language of evidence” and not merely a field of study.

He made this remark on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, during the World Statistics Day Celebration organized by the Department of Statistics, University of Ibadan.

Professor Olapegba noted that statistics remains the foundation for sound policy formulation and serves as a bridge between research and national development. He emphasized that in a world inundated with information, quality data acts as the compass that separates facts from fiction, signal from noise, and truth from conjecture.

He praised the efforts of statisticians, stating that data-driven insights underpin effective governance in sectors such as health, agriculture, education, and national security. According to him, “Insights derived from data empower governments to plan, monitor, and evaluate progress with precision and accountability.”

The Chairman of the occasion, Professor Dahud Kehinde Shangodoyin, FNSS, FASA, Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Oyo State, highlighted the essential role of quality data in governance. He remarked that “good governance depends on results, and results depend on data,” stressing that data reveals where societies stand, how far they have advanced, and where future efforts must be directed.

In his remarks, the Dean, Faculty of Science, Professor I. A. Oladosu, commended the Department of Statistics for nurturing critical thinkers and professionals who contribute meaningfully to national development.

Delivering the keynote address titled “Driving Change with Quality Statistics and Data for Everyone,” the Chief Executive Officer of TSL Logistics Limited, Mr. Wale Fatoki, urged statisticians to adopt exploratory, moral, transformative, and cognitive attitudes as essential drivers of change. He underscored that behavioural qualities such as integrity, transparency, and patience are even more vital than technical capacity in sustaining meaningful progress.

The Guest Speaker, Mr. Ezekiel Olapade, Vice President at JP Morgan Chase, USA, shared his personal journey from undergraduate study at the University of Ibadan to a successful global career in statistics. He emphasized that statistics is not only a professional tool but a necessity for informed decision-making and national development.

The Head of Department, Professor Oluwayemisi O. Alaba, explained that commemorating World Statistics Day 2025 was vital for advocacy and inspiration among students and young researchers. She described reliable and accessible data as “the backbone of effective governance, evidence-based policymaking, and sustainable progress.”

Distinguished guests, including Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, FAS (12th Vice-Chancellor of UI), Professor Deji Omole (Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, LAUTECH Governing Council), Dr. Taiwo Lasisi (Rector, The Polytechnic, Ibadan), Mrs. Mercy Olugu (Rector, Federal School of Statistics), CSP Dr. Femi Okunnowo (Commanding Officer, Swift Response Squad), Dr. J. G. Olawuwo (HOD, Mathematics and Statistics, The Polytechnic Ibadan), Dr. Emmanuel Andem (President, Statistics Alumni Association, UI), and Mr. Dejo Ajayi (former DG, Federal Office of Statistics), delivered goodwill messages.

Awards were presented to distinguished alumni in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the advancement of statistics and the growth of the Department.