Scientists must shape tomorrow- Egbewole

By Isaac Lewu

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has charged scientists, researchers and academics to intensify collaborative research and innovation-driven efforts towards developing sustainable solutions to global challenges, including climate change, insecurity, food shortages and emerging health threats.

Prof. Egbewole, who gave this charge last Tuesday (June 2, 2026) at the Faculty of Physical Sciences’ 2nd Biennial International Conference (FAPSCON 2026), stressed that the future of society depends largely on scientific discoveries and knowledge-based interventions.

The Conference, themed; “Future Frontiers in Science and Innovation: Shaping Tomorrow,”  was held at the University Auditorium.

The Vice Chancellor described the Conference as timely, noting that the world is currently grappling with numerous challenges, including climate change, insecurity, food shortages and emerging health concerns. He said gatherings, such as FAPSCON, provide opportunities for researchers, scholars and professionals from different parts of the world to collectively explore innovative solutions to contemporary global issues through research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Prof. Egbewole, who is also a Member of the Body of Benchers, noted that international conferences remain critical avenues for intellectual engagement, networking and the dissemination of research findings. He explained that such platforms enable scholars to showcase their contributions, exchange ideas and establish partnerships capable of driving scientific discoveries and sustainable development. He added that the University remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote academic excellence and global visibility.

The Vice Chancellor congratulated the Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Olabisi A. Adekeye, members of the Faculty, past Deans and the Local Organising Committee, led by Prof. Olubunmi A. Fadipe-Joseph, for successfully organising the Conference.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Olabisi A. Adekeye, called on scientists, researchers, academics and industry experts to harness science, innovation and collaboration as tools for addressing contemporary societal challenges and shaping a sustainable future.

Prof. Adekeye noted that the Conference builds on the success of the maiden edition held in 2024 and reflects the  growing reputation of the Faculty as a centre of academic excellence and innovation. He explained that the Conference provides a platform for the exchange of ideas, presentation of groundbreaking research and strengthening of partnerships among scholars, professionals, policymakers and industry leaders. He also highlighted the array of distinguished keynote speakers and experts assembled for the conference, expressing confidence that their contributions would enrich discussions and inspire innovative solutions to emerging scientific challenges.

The Dean commended the sponsors, partners, delegates and members of the Conference Planning Committee for their invaluable support and dedication to the success of the event.

Prof. Adekeye urged participants to take advantage of the Conference to build lasting networks and advance knowledge capable of transforming society, while reaffirming the  commitment of the Faculty to promoting research excellence and innovation-driven development.

In her speech the Local Organising Committee Chairperson, Prof. Olubunmi A. Fadipe-Joseph, described FAPSCON 2026 as a strategic platform designed to stimulate interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthen research capacity, and promote innovative solutions to contemporary societal challenges. She explained that the Conference had brought together scholars, researchers, industry experts, and students from diverse fields of thePhysical Sciences to exchange ideas, share research findings, and explore opportunities for impactful partnerships.

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.