By Isaac Lewu
An Energy Technology and Sustainable Development expert at the College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, China, Prof. Mohamadu Sadiq Balogun, has advocated greater investment in finding solutions to the world’s growing energy crisis.
Prof. Balogun made this call last Wednesday (August 20, 2025) while delivering a lecture titled “Navigating the Tides of Academia: Advancing Global Impact Through Nanomaterials for Sustainable Energy Storage”, at the University of Ilorin Auditorium. The lecture was jointly organised by the Centre for International Education (CIE) and the Faculties of Physical Sciences and Engineering and Technology.
The don explained that global energy security depends on researchers, industries, and governments embracing scientific innovation.
Prof. Balogun stressed the need for stronger collaborations between Africa and Asia, adding that knowledge sharing and joint funding are vital to fast-track discoveries in nanotechnology.
He also challenged young scholars to go beyond theory and conduct practical research that addresses real life problems, stressing that nanomaterials could put academia at the center of global transformation by helping nations achieve clean, affordable, and reliable energy.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, described Prof. Balogun as an illustrious scholar and a top rated global researcher whose works represent the height of academic excellence.
The Vice Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, praised Prof. Balogun’s groundbreaking research on non-metallic nanomaterials for sustainable energy storage, noting that it is globally relevant at a time when the world urgently seeks innovative solutions for energy security.
According to him, the University’s strong commitment to academic excellence and partnerships continues to attract distinguished scholars and thought leaders whose contributions address pressing global challenges while inspiring sustainable solutions that impact society positively.
In his remarks, the Director of the Centre for International Education, Prof. Lateef Ibraheem Onireti, reaffirmed the dedication of the University to fostering academic excellence, global partnerships, and impactful research.
He said that Prof. Balogun’s invitation to deliver the lecture reflects UNILORIN’s vision of advancing knowledge that transcends boundaries and strengthens international cooperation.
The CIE Director urged participants, both physically present and those joining virtually, to make the most of the lecture, noting that it would shape their individual and collective contributions to sustainable development.
Also speaking, the Head of the Department of Chemistry, Prof. Modinah AbdulRaheem, highlighted the importance of the lecture, stressing that the issue discussed goes beyond Chemistry. She said that it affects Physics, Geology, Engineering, education, and other fields.
Prof. AbdulRaheem also emphasised the need for open-mindedness and intellectual exchange, noting that such dialogue broadens understanding, inspires collaboration, and sparks innovation that addresses pressing global needs.
The lecture was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare-Odunola; the Dean of Physical Sciences, Prof. Olabisi Adekeye; the Dean of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Joshua Olaoye; the Dean of Agriculture, Prof. Isreal Ogunlade; Heads of Departments from hosting faculties, staff members, and students of the institution.
