From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A Professor of Organic Chemistry at the Federal University, Lokoja, Olalekan Wasiu Salawu has lamented the state of scientific research in Nigeria with a call on government and spirited individuals for renewed commitment to address the trend.
Professor Salawu made the call while delivering the 33rd Inaugural Lecture series of the University at its Adankolo Campus in Lokoja yesterday.
Professor Salawu in his Lecture titled: “Hidden Recipe for Life: How Tiny Complex Compound’s Run The Sun” noted that the major obstacle to scientific research in Nigeria is lack of access to needed facilities which are restricted due to maintenance costs, leaving young researchers deprived of critical learning opportunities.
According to Professor Salawu, “The root cause? A systemic neglect of research funding. True research funding involves competitive, merit-based allocation to projects with transformative potential. Globally, such support flows from government bodies and corporate research and development departments, supplemented by philanthropic efforts in areas like disease eradication.
“In Nigeria, however, public universities the primary hubs of scientific inquiry rely almost entirely on government funding, which remains woefully inadequate.
“I therefore advocate passionately for prioritizing basic research. While
it may not yield immediate commercial returns, basic research lays the groundwork for future breakthroughs. Consider mathematics: foundational theories developed centuries ago underpin today’s digital revolution.
“Equally troubling is the politicization of higher education. The proliferation of federal universities driven by regional quotas rather than academic need has stretched resources to breaking point. How can we justify establishing new institutions when existing ones languish in neglect?
“Redirecting these funds to strengthen current universities would yield far greater dividends for scientific research.
“To our leaders, I urge you to stop paying lip service to science. Transform rhetoric into action.
“To the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), I extend gratitude. Your relentless advocacy has secured the meagre facilities we have today. To sceptical parents, I invite you to witness firsthand the conditions under which your children learn. The struggle for better funding is not mere agitation it is a fight for Nigeria’s future”
On the way forward, Professor Salawu advocated for “Moving beyond empty Promises and allocation of budgets transparently
“Creation of at least one cutting edge research hub per geopolitical zone, equipped with state-of-the-art instruments accessible to all institutions.
“Launch Targeted Intervention Funds: Direct resources to revitalize basic science departments, ensuring they have the tools for both teaching and groundbreaking research.
” Publicly funded research must remain in the public domain, subject to peer review and free from secrecy. Science is not mysticism it demands rigor, transparency, and collective effort.
“The time for change is now. Let us rebuild Nigeria’s scientific landscape into one that inspires innovation, fuels progress, and secures our place on the global stage”
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi described the institution’s inaugural lecture series as the most cherished academic traditions where accomplished scholars share the results of years of research, teaching, and reflection with both the academic community and the general public.
He commended Professor Olalekan Salawu for being the first academic from the Department of Chemistry to present an inaugural lecture so far
“Professor Salawu has set a remarkable example, and his achievement today will no doubt motivate other members of the Department to strive for similar excellence.
“Another fascinating aspect of today’s lecture is that the title is being presented in an indigenous language—Yoruba. The title, “Èròjà ìṣèmí tó fárasín: Bí àpapọ̀ àwọn èròjà àkérèlójú (bíntìn) ṣe ń ṣíṣe ìṣèmí,” translated as “Hidden Recipe for Life: How Tiny Complex Compounds Run the Show,” is both profound and symbolic.
“This creative choice highlights the importance of indigenous languages as valid and powerful tools for expressing complex academic ideas. It also reflects the beautiful connection between culture and science; the true essence of scholarship.
“The Inaugural Lecture Series offers us more than an academic celebration. It recognizes the achievements of our professors, showcases their contributions to knowledge and national development, and stimulates cross-disciplinary dialogue”
He also reaffirmed the University’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service to humanity.
