The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has called for urgent legislative and policy reforms to make scientific research a true engine of national development.
He made the call while delivering the 4th Annual Lecture of the School of Physical Sciences at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). The event, held at the T.I. Francis Auditorium, brought together academics, researchers, policymakers, and students under the theme: “The Politics of Science Funding: Legal Framework and Policy Directions for Research Development.”
In recognition of his leadership in youth empowerment, education, and legislative governance, the university presented Ogundoyin with an Outstanding Recognition Award.
While receiving the award, the Speaker expressed gratitude to the management and students of FUTA for the honour, describing it as a motivation to continue promoting education and innovation in governance.
He emphasized that sustainable research funding in Nigeria must be supported by law and insulated from political instability.
> “Science and innovation must be protected from the ups and downs of politics. We need dedicated, legislated funding frameworks that guarantee continuity and impact. If Nigeria must compete globally, we must prioritise our researchers, invest in our institutions, and align policy with progress,” he said.
Ogundoyin further urged universities to explore creative revenue channels beyond government allocations, such as research commercialization, private-sector partnerships, consultancy services, and alumni endowments.
He also referenced the work of Dr. Ijeoma U. Aneke, noting that her research on university education funding in Nigeria provides practical insights into the sector’s recurring challenges and offers a path toward reform.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. A.T. Oladiji, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Oluyamo, commended the Oyo Speaker for his advocacy for education and innovation. She described him as a model for young Nigerians in leadership and public service.
Participants at the lecture lauded Ogundoyin’s presentation and echoed his call for stronger collaboration between academia, government, and the private sector to strengthen Nigeria’s research ecosystem and drive meaningful development.