Egbewole tasks researchers on societal impact
By Isaac Lewu
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has charged researchers, academics and students to prioritise innovation and research capable of addressing societal challenges, stressing that universities must move beyond theoretical knowledge to producing solutions with tangible impact on communities and industries.
Prof. Egbewole gave the charge last Tuesday (June 2, 2026) at the University Multipurpose Hall while speaking at a Technology and Innovation Summit organised by the Centre for Laboratory to Product (LABTOP) in conjunction with the Faculty of Engineering and Technology.
He explained that the relevance of contemporary research lies not in its volume but in its capacity to solve real-life problems and contribute to national development.
The Vice Chancellor commended the organisers for sustaining a platform that promotes innovation, entrepreneurship and industry-oriented research. He particularly lauded the Director of LABTOP for his commitment to advancing the University’s drive towards research commercialisation and academic-industry collaboration.
The renowned legal luminary noted with satisfaction that significant progress had been recorded since the maiden edition of the summit, particularly in the area of commercialising research outputs, adding that the University remains committed to ensuring that research findings do not end up on shelves but are transformed into products, services and innovations that improve lives and create economic opportunities. He added that this objective aligns with the institution’s vision of strengthening partnerships between academia and industry for sustainable development.
Prof. Egbewole also echoed the call by traditional and community leaders for students and researchers to embrace practical approaches to learning and innovation. He explained that the LABTOP was established to bridge the gap between knowledge-generation and wealth creation by facilitating the translation of research outcomes into marketable solutions. He urged students to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and leverage available opportunities to develop ideas capable of making meaningful contributions to society.
While expressing appreciation to all participants and stakeholders, the Vice Chancellor emphasised the need for stronger industry participation in academic and research activities. He observed that meaningful development can only be achieved through robust collaboration among universities, industries and policymakers.
Prof. Egbewole, therefore, urged industries to work more closely with institutions of higher learning, assuring them that the University of Ilorin would continue to pursue strategic partnerships that foster innovation, drive economic growth and reinforce its reputation as the better by far University.
In his remarks, the Director of LABTOP, Prof. Mohammed Jimoh Saka, highlighted the strides made by the University in creating pathways through which research outcomes can be transformed into practical solutions. He explained that the Centre has, over the years, provided a structured platform for identifying promising research outputs and guiding their development through mentorship, technical evaluation and prototype refinement.
According to her, the complexity of modern global challenges requires the collective expertise of scientists across disciplines working towards common goals.
In her Keynote Address titled “Advanced Nano-Materials for Water Pollution Control and Environmental Remediation”, a Visiting Professor in the Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, South Africa, Prof. Jane Catherine Ngila, identified advanced nanomaterials as a transformative tool for tackling water pollution and advancing environmental remediation across the globe. She said innovative technologies based on nanoscience are increasingly providing efficient and sustainable solutions to challenges associated with water contamination, public health and environmental degradation.
Prof. Ngila explained that nanomaterials such as nanocomposite membranes, nano-sorbents, photocatalysts and graphene-based materials possess unique properties that enable them to effectively remove contaminants, including heavy metals, pathogens, pharmaceuticals and industrial dyes from polluted water sources.
According to her, recent advances in nanotechnology have significantly improved water treatment processes and enhanced environmental sustainability.
The scholar further highlighted the contributions of her research group at the University of Johannesburg in developing innovative water purification technologies, including electrospun nanofibres and advanced membrane systems for wastewater treatment. She noted that continued collaboration among scientists, researchers and institutions remains essential for translating laboratory discoveries into practical solutions capable of addressing global water challenges, and urged stakeholders to invest more in research and innovation to ensure access to clean water and a healthier environment for future generations.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), Abuja, Prof. Olusegun Omoniyi, urged African nations to take deliberate and coordinated steps towards harnessing their vast mineral resources for sustainable development, stressing that science remains the most reliable catalyst for navigating the global energy transition. He noted that as the world shifts towards cleaner energy systems, developing countries, particularly those in Africa, must strategically position themselves to benefit from the Iya opportunities presented by their rich mineral endowments rather than remain mere suppliers of raw materials.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice Chancellor Research Technology and Innovation(RTI), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye, the University Librarian represented by the Deputy Librarian, Dr Titilayo Abdulsalam, Professors, lecturers, staff members and students of the Faculty and the University at large.
