The president, Nigerian Economic Society and former Head, Department of Economics University of Ibadan, Professor Adeola Adenikinju, has challenged students and alumni of the department to continue to distinguish themselves across the world.
Presenting the “Book of Reminiscences” which documents the history of the department of Economics at the University of Ibadan, Professor Adenikinju stated that UI economics is not ordinary with scholars produced influencing policy and government nationally and internationally.
“The Book of Reminiscences is a response to the need to document the great heritage of UI Economics department through the lens of those who were there at the very beginning.
“This was intended to inspire latter generations of students to appreciate their heritage.
“UI Department of Economics is not ordinary. It has produced economic giants who bestrode the nation and the continent. Those of us who passed through the department were privileged to stand on the shoulders of these giants of men who built the department.
“Many of these giants, like Professor Ojetunji Aboyade, the father of the department; as well as Professors Owodunni Teriba, A.O. Philips, M.O. Kayode, Emmanuel Edozien, and Eno Inanga, have passed on to the world beyond.”
The Book of Reminiscences, which was edited by Professor Adenikinju and Dr Victoria Foye, contains a list of the first generations of students and lecturers who were in the department in the 60s and 70s (who were still around) and alumni of the department in the 1980s and 1990s.
“We are grateful for the 15 great economists and proud alumni of the department who shared their thoughts about what the department used to look like and their advice for current staff and students” Prof. Adenikinju added.
The Dean, Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Professor Abiodun Folawewo, stated that the unveiling of the Book Reminiscences was to detail the giant strides of the Department of Economics, University of Ibadan, the very first Economics Department in the country, in terms of the quality of its products who have continued to excel in every sphere of life – public and private sectors and academics – both within the country and globally.
The book, he said, offers a rich compilation of reminiscences from distinguished faculty members, alumni, and stakeholders, providing valuable insights into the Department’s over six decades journey.
The Chairman of the event, Dr Segun Aina who was former President, Chatered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and President, Africa Fintech Network, challenged the faculty to convert their research to policy relevant studies aimed at solving societal problems.
According to him, this is where the university can generate money through industry relevant, problem-solving, high-quality research outputs.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, represented by the deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Adenronke Baiyeroju, noted that the launch of the book showcased the landmark footsteps of giants in the Department of Economics and demonstrates the solid foundation upon which the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences of the University of Ibadan is built.
