University of Ibadan to Host Inaugural International Social Science Conference with 250 Researchers in Attendance
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
Tomorrow, the University of Ibadan will play host to the maiden edition of the Annual Ibadan International Social Science Conference, welcoming over 250 researchers from various disciplines within the social sciences and humanities. The conference aims to provide evidence-based solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria's development.
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In a statement, Prof. Ezebunwa Nwokocha, Dean of the Faculty of the Social Sciences at the University of Ibadan, revealed that the researchers hail from esteemed institutions in the United States of America, South Africa, and universities across Nigeria. Their collective goal is to present research findings that offer insights into the complexities of Nigeria's development issues.
The opening ceremony, scheduled for March 5th, will feature a keynote address delivered by Prof. Lai Erinosho, a Trustee of the Social Science Academy of Nigeria. Additionally, Prof. Augustine Okereke, former Senior Vice President and Provost of Medgar Event College, City University of New York, will present the lead paper.
Prof. Nwokocha emphasized the pivotal role that the University of Ibadan's Social Sciences faculty has played in shaping policy formulation and advising the government on strategic development initiatives. He expressed the conference's aim of reasserting Ibadan's leadership in the social sciences arena, particularly in addressing contemporary social issues for sustainable development.
The conference's theme, "Social Science, Contemporary Social Issues, and the Actualization of Sustainable Development," reflects a deliberate effort to gather evidence-based data on pressing national concerns. These include terrorism, banditry, urbanization challenges, transportation, healthcare, social protection policies, unemployment, and decent work challenges.
Prof. Nwokocha highlighted the resilience of Nigerian researchers in tackling the country's challenges despite challenging working conditions. He emphasized the importance of translating research findings into actionable recommendations for policymakers, advocating for evidence-driven policies tailored to Nigeria's unique circumstances.
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In closing, Prof. Nwokocha expressed optimism that the conference's outcomes would inform government decisions and spur the implementation of effective policies and development initiatives. He reaffirmed the University of Ibadan's commitment to national development through intellectual contributions and called on stakeholders to heed the evidence-driven recommendations for the betterment of Nigeria.
