Convert research to policies solve societal problems – Oni, ex-CIBN President

…As UI launches economics documents history, book of reminiscences

…UI Department of Economics is not Ordinary—Adenikinju

Segun Oni, Former President Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria(CIBN) and President Africa Fintech Network challenged the faculty of social sciences especially departments of economics to convert their research to policies relevant solving societal problems.

Oni who was Chairman at the presentation of the Book of Reminiscences which documents the History of the department of Economics at the University of Ibadan said “this is where the university can generate money through industry relevant, problem-solving, high-quality research outputs.

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Adeola Adenikinju, a professor and the president, Nigerian Economic Society and former Head, Department of Economics University of Ibadan, challenged students and alumni of the department to continue to distinguish themselves across the world.

While presenting the book, Adenikinju stated that UI economics is not ordinary with scholars produced influencing policy and government nationally and internationally.

“The Book of Reminiscences is a response to the need to document the great heritage of UI Eco department through the lens of those who were there at the very beginning. This was intended to inspire later generations of students to appreciate their heritage. UI Department of Economics is not ordinary. It has produced economic giants who bestrode the nation and the continent. Those of us who passed through the department were privileged to stand on the shoulders of these giants of men who built the department. Many of these giants, like Professor Ojetunji Aboyade, a professor, the father of the department, Owodunni Teriba, A.O. Philips, M.O. Kayode, Emmanuel Edozien, and Eno Inanga all Professors have passed on to the world beyond.”

The book of Reminiscences which was edited by Adeola Adenikinji and Victoria Foye contains a list of the first generations of students and lecturers who were in the department in the 60s and 70s (who were still around) and alumni of the department in the 1980s and 1990s. We are grateful for the 15 great economists and proud alumni of the department who shared their thoughts about what the department used to look like and their advice for current staff and students.

Abiodun Folawewo,Professor and, the Dean Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences stated that the unveiling of the book Reminiscences, which details the giant strides of the Department of Economics, University of Ibadan, the very first Economics Department in the country, in terms of the quality of its products who have continued to excel in every sphere of life – public and private sectors and academics both within the country and globally.

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The book, he said, offers a rich compilation of reminiscences from distinguished faculty members, alumni, and stakeholders, providing valuable insights into the Department’s over six-decade journey.

Kayode Adebowale,professor and the Vice Chancellor, Professor represented by the deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Adenronke Baiyeroju noted that the launch of the book, Reminiscences showcases the landmark footsteps of giants in the department of Economics and demonstrates the solid foundation upon which the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences of the University of Ibadan is built.