The immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and distinguished Mathematics scholar at the University of Ibadan,Professor Ezekiel Olusola Ayoola, has urged the Nigerian government to invest in mathematical sciences, saying the fields remain the foundation for emerging technologies.
Ayoola, who made the call in his retirement valedictory and birthday lecture, urged Nigeria to make long-term investments in mathematics and education if the country hopes to compete with developed nations globally.
Delivering a lecture titled “The Closing and the Opening Doors: An Account of My Experience of My Academics, Administrative and Spiritual Experiences at the Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan,” the professor lamented the widespread ignorance among some top ruling elites and technocrats about the value of mathematical knowledge in national development. This, he noted, has contributed to the poor recognition and funding of basic mathematical research in Nigeria. Pointing to the complete omission of mathematical sciences from direct funding in the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) thematic research priorities, Prof. Ayola contrasted Nigeria’s approach with that of the US National Science Foundation and leading European and Asian agencies, which invest heavily in mathematics.
“Mathematical principles are foundational to the development and application of countless existing and emerging technologies,” he said. “Mathematics underpins algorithms, data analysis, artificial intelligence, quantum information science, quantum computing, optimization, modeling, and simulation, all essential for innovation and efficiency across various sectors.”
The former Head of the Department of Mathematics emphasised that mathematical tools are not just supplementary but are the very foundation upon which modern technologies are built.
“As technology advances, the role of mathematics will become even more critical in shaping our future,” he stressed.
Prof. Ayoola also challenged young scholars to explore cutting-edge interdisciplinary fields such as quantum information science and quantum computing, describing these areas as revolutionary and rapidly advancing.
“These fields are transforming our understanding of computation, information, communication, and even the nature of reality itself,” he said.
However, he expressed deep concern over Nigeria, and Africa’s, lag in developing robust capacities in these critical fields. Citing corruption, under-investment, and poor treatment of scholars, Prof. Ayoola lamented that such setbacks have hindered progress.He also faulted the lack of visionary leadership passionate about science and mathematical research.
“No nation can achieve technological development without a solid foundation in mathematics,” he warned, urging that “long-term planning and investment” are essential to reap the benefits of emerging advanced technologies.
In his goodwill message, a former Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka lauded Prof. Ayoola as a hardworking and dedicated scholar, congratulating him on his retirement and wishing him a peaceful post-academic life.
In her remarks, the immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Baiyeroju described him as honest, open, and trusted, noting his tireless efforts in both administration and academics, as well as his mentorship in showcasing the beauty of mathematics to younger generations.
END
