Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Abel Idowu Olayinka, has called on Nigerian universities to reposition research efforts towards economic growth, innovation, and societal transformation rather than pursuing knowledge solely for academic purposes.
Olayinka made the call while delivering the keynote address at the 4th Biennial International Conference of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Ajayi Crowther University, held under the theme, “Frontiers in Science and Technology: Innovations for Sustainable Development in a Dynamic World.”
Speaking at the conference, the former vice-chancellor stressed that research in the 21st century must produce measurable economic and social impact capable of improving the quality of life of citizens.
According to him, universities should evolve into centres of innovation, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation that contribute directly to national development.
“The real and legitimate goal of the sciences is the endowment of human life with new inventions and riches,” Olayinka said, noting that higher institutions must play strategic roles in driving sustainable development.
He explained that sustainable development can only be achieved through entrepreneurial initiatives that address environmental concerns, promote social inclusion, and encourage responsible economic practices.
The former UI Vice-Chancellor also presented a triangular framework linking science with innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, describing the model as essential for modern university research systems.
Olayinka, however, expressed concern over what he described as the absence of coordinated research agendas in many Nigerian universities, arguing that academics often operate in isolated research clusters without alignment with national development priorities.
He identified excessive teaching workloads, external consultancy engagements, and weak connections between research outcomes and societal needs as major impediments confronting the nation’s universities.
“Research at most universities competes with high teaching loads and external demands such as consultancies and teaching at private institutions. This leaves little time and energy to devote to doctoral students,” he said.
He further lamented that the application of research findings remains weak due to inadequate linkages between universities, industries, and government development objectives.
To address the challenges, Olayinka recommended the establishment of intellectual property policies, technology transfer offices, and research integrity units across Nigerian universities. He also advocated improved investment in research infrastructure and the adoption of new governance models to strengthen university-based research.
“In our technological and knowledge-driven world, change is inevitable. Strategic research must contribute to local, national, and global development,” he added.
The former vice-chancellor further encouraged universities to establish spin-off companies capable of commercialising research outputs and promoting entrepreneurship among academics and students.
He challenged stakeholders to determine whether Nigeria would emerge as a competitive player in global technological advancement or remain dependent on imported products and excessive consumerism.
Declaring the conference open, the Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Ebunoluwa Oduwole, said the gathering was organised to provide a platform for scholars and researchers from different disciplines to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions to global challenges.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Afolake Olanbiwonninu, the vice-chancellor said the conference was expected to stimulate discussions capable of shaping the future of science and technology.
Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Roland Isibor, appreciated the university management for supporting the conference and described the institution’s leadership as visionary and committed to academic excellence.
He noted that the conference was aimed at promoting intellectual research, encouraging innovation, and strengthening partnerships for societal advancement.
Also speaking, the Conference Chairman, Ebenezer Olayinka, said the event focused on transformative advancements in human health, environmental sustainability, and technology.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Ayokanmi Ore, commended the university management and the Faculty of Natural Sciences for their commitment to research excellence and urged participants to utilise the conference as an opportunity for networking and collaboration.
The biennial conference attracted scientists, researchers, and academics from within and outside Nigeria, with discussions centred on bridging the gap between academic research and national development priorities.
