Prof. Olalekan Salawu of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has called on the Federal Government to prioritise science education as a strategic tool to transform Nigerian universities into centres of innovation and technological advancement.
Salawu, a professor of inorganic chemistry, made the appeal while delivering the university’s 33rd Inaugural Lecture on Thursday in Lokoja.
The lecture, titled “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,” explored the fundamental role of science and research in national development.
He stressed that the government must go beyond rhetoric and demonstrate genuine commitment to scientific growth through transparent budgeting, sustainable funding, and inclusion of research priorities in national development plans.
“The establishment of Regional Advanced Laboratories—one in each geopolitical zone—equipped with modern facilities and accessible to all institutions, would accelerate innovation and collaboration across universities,” he said.
Salawu also proposed the creation of Targeted Intervention Funds to revitalise basic science departments, ensuring that teaching and research are supported with adequate tools and infrastructure.
He emphasised that science thrives on openness and collaboration, insisting that publicly funded research should be transparent, peer-reviewed, and accessible to all.
“Science is not mysticism—it requires rigor, honesty, and collective engagement. Now is the time to rebuild Nigeria’s scientific framework into one that encourages discovery, drives development, and strengthens our global competitiveness,” he stated.
The scholar lamented the decline in the quality of science graduates, linking it to outdated laboratories, inadequate funding, overcrowded classrooms, and low motivation among students.
He urged the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON) to standardise professional training for chemists, just as COREN regulates engineering practice in the country.
Salawu further challenged universities to rebuild dilapidated infrastructure, nurture curiosity-driven research, and restore the country’s scientific pride through innovation and excellence.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of FUL, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, commended Salawu for his scholarly contribution, describing the lecture as both profound and inspiring. He encouraged academics and students to emulate Salawu’s creativity, dedication, and passion for advancing science and society.