Egbewole calls for science-based solutions for food security, biosafety challenges
By Bashirat Omotosho
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has called on scientists, policy makers and stakeholders to embrace science-based solutions in addressing food security, biosafety and public safety challenges confronting contemporary society.
Prof. Egbewole made the call last Monday (June 8, 2026) while declaring open the 32nd Annual Conference of the Botanical Society of Nigeria (BOSON), which was hosted by the Department of Plant Biology of the University. The Conference was themed, “GMO Science at the Crossroads: Balancing Food Security, Biosafety and Public Safety” and it was held at the University Auditorium.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare-Odunola, the Vice Chancellor described the Conference theme as timely and relevant in an era marked by increasing demand for sustainable food production and environmental protection.
He commended the BOSON for creating a platform that promotes informed discussions on biotechnology and its implications for national development.
Prof. Egbewole, who is also the Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), assured participants of the continued support of the University for research and innovation capable of addressing societal challenges while fostering sustainable development.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Prof. A. A. AbdulRahaman, welcomed delegates and guests from across Nigeria and beyond, describing the hosting of BOSON-UNILORIN 2026 as both a privilege and a responsibility.
He recalled that the University Secured the hosting rights during the society’s 31st Annual Conference held at Benson Idahosa University in 2025 and expressed appreciation to the BOSON Council for its confidence in the Department of Plant Biology.
According to him, the conference provided a valuable platform for scientific engagement, interdisciplinary dialogue and policy discussions aimed at shaping the future of Plant Science and agricultural development in Africa.
Prof. AbdulRahaman disclosed that the Conference received an overwhelming response, attracting 365 abstracts for oral, virtual and poster presentations. He noted that the event featured distinguished scholars from leading institutions within and outside Nigeria, adding that the quality of participation reflected the growing relevance of botanical sciences in addressing global challenges.
In his address, the President of BOSON, Prof. Adamu Aliyu Aliero, described the conference as a significant milestone for the society, noting that it marked the second time the University of Ilorin would host the annual gathering after first doing so in 1998.
He commended the institution for its hospitality and unwavering support for scientific advancement, while acknowledging the efforts of the Local Organising Committee in ensuring a seamless conference experience.
Prof. Aliero emphasised the need for scientists to take the lead in combating misinformation and public misconceptions surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and other biotechnology-related innovations.
Also speaking, the Head of the Department of Plant Biology, Dr Bolaji Umar Olayinka, expressed delight at hosting participants from diverse institutions and backgrounds. He described the conference as an opportunity for researchers, educators, students and industry stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen collaborations and advance scientific knowledge in plant sciences.
According to him, the Conference theme highlights the need to critically examine how biotechnology can contribute to food security while ensuring environmental sustainability and public confidence.
Dr Olayinka noted that discussions during the conference would cover key areas including plant physiology, genetics, ecology, biotechnology, pathology, ethnobotany and crop resilience. He thanked the University administration, BOSON executives, invited speakers, sponsors and members of the organising committee for their support and dedication.
Delivering the Keynote Address, the Director of the West African Hub and Head of the Genetic Resources Centre, Prof. Michael Abberton, emphasised the need to bridge traditional and modern knowledge systems in advancing Plant Science.
Speaking on the topic, “Bridging Traditional and Modern Knowledge in Plant Science,” Prof. Abberton noted that indigenous communities have, for generations, developed valuable knowledge on plant conservation, cultivation, medicinal applications and environmental management.
According to him, such knowledge remains a critical resource that should not be overlooked in contemporary scientific research.
Prof. Abberton argued that integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods could provide innovative and sustainable solutions to challenges in agriculture, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
He called on researchers, policymakers and development practitioners to foster stronger collaborations with local communities in order to harness indigenous wisdom alongside cutting-edge scientific discoveries.
Such partnerships, he said, would enhance food security, preserve biodiversity and promote inclusive scientific development across Africa.
In his plenary presentation, titled “Bioeconomy, Circular Economy and Green Entrepreneurship in Botany,” the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos and Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Ede, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, underscored the growing importance of biological resources in driving sustainable economic growth.
He explained that the bioeconomy presents opportunities for transforming biological materials into valuable products and services capable of generating employment, wealth creation and environmental sustainability.
He further stressed that plant scientists have a vital role to play in unlocking the economic potential of botanical resources through research, innovation and commercialization.
