Lagos: A university lecturer, Prof. Peter Adeonipekun, has called on academics to renew their commitment to research, innovation, and environmental sustainability. Adeonipekun, Head of the Botany Department at the University of Lagos (Unilag), made the call while speaking at a programme to mark the department’s 60th anniversary.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the theme of the programme is ‘Botany @ 60: The Impact, Challenge and Future’. Adeonipekun stated that the celebration marked six decades of progress in plant science and environmental studies. He highlighted the department’s significant role in advancing plant science, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability in Nigeria. Adeonipekun attributed the department’s achievements to its dedication to quality research, collaboration, and capacity development.
The department has produced graduates and scholars who have made contributions to academia, government, and industry. Adeonipekun expressed gratitude to past Heads of Department, lecturers, and students for their dedication. He emphasized the department’s ongoing commitment to research addressing global challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and sustainable resource management.
Prof. Ganiyu Oyetibo, Dean of the Faculty of Life Science, expressed pride in the department’s evolution from its inception in 1965 to becoming a center of excellence. He emphasized the importance of botany in addressing global issues such as food security, climate change, and sustainable development. Oyetibo pledged continued support for research funding and collaboration at the faculty level.
Prof. Dele Olowokudejo, the Chairman of the occasion, praised the department for preserving its legacy. He described the 60th anniversary as both a milestone and a call to action. Olowokudejo emphasized integrating traditional botanical knowledge with modern technology for sustainable use of plant resources.
Prof. Toyin Ogundipe, a former vice-chancellor and botanist, commended the department’s academic and research excellence. He reflected on his personal experiences and encouraged interdisciplinary projects and external research funding. Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, highlighted the importance of plant science in national development. He commended the department’s contributions to environmental sustainability and urged stronger collaboration with the government.
Prof. Saida Mabadeje, a former lecturer, expressed joy at the department’s 60th anniversary. She reflected on her years of service, emphasizing the contributions of colleagues and students to the department’s enduring legacy. Mabadeje commended the current leadership and urged staff and students to uphold the department’s values of scholarship, innovation, and integrity.