UI Economics Department Launches Historic Book of Reminiscences, Celebrates Legacy of Excellence
The President of the Nigerian Economic Society and former Head of the Department of Economics at the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Adeola Adenikinju, has urged students and alumni of the department to uphold its legacy by continuing to distinguish themselves globally.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Book of Reminiscences, which chronicles the history of the Department of Economics at UI, Professor Adenikinju emphasized the department’s significant impact on policy and governance both nationally and internationally.
“The Book of Reminiscences is a response to the need to document the remarkable heritage of the UI Economics Department through the lens of those who laid its foundation. This is meant to inspire later generations of students to appreciate their legacy,” Adenikinju stated.
Highlighting the department’s exceptional contributions, he noted, “UI Economics is not ordinary. It has produced economic giants who have shaped the nation and the continent. Those of us who passed through the department stood on the shoulders of these remarkable scholars—pioneers like Professor Ojetunji Aboyade, Professors Owodunni Teriba, A.O. Philips, M.O. Kayode, Emmanuel Edozien, and Eno Inanga, who laid a strong foundation for the department.”
Edited by Professor Adenikinju and Dr. Victoria Foye, the Book of Reminiscences features insights from 15 distinguished economists and proud alumni of the department. It captures the experiences of first-generation students and lecturers from the 1960s and 1970s, as well as alumni from the 1980s and 1990s, offering valuable reflections and advice for current students and staff.
The Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Professor Abiodun Folawewo, described the book as a testament to the department’s legacy as the first Economics Department in Nigeria. He praised its graduates, who have excelled in public and private sectors and academia globally, and highlighted the department’s commitment to producing exceptional scholars and professionals.
“The book provides a rich compilation of reflections from distinguished faculty, alumni, and stakeholders, showcasing over six decades of academic and professional excellence,” Folawewo said.
Dr. Segun Oni, former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and President of the Africa Fintech Network, who chaired the event, challenged the faculty to focus on policy-relevant research to address societal challenges. He emphasized that such research could generate revenue for the university through industry-focused, problem-solving solutions.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Adenronke Baiyeroju, lauded the book’s launch as a showcase of the department’s monumental achievements. She described it as a reflection of the solid foundation upon which the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences at UI is built.
The event celebrated the department’s legacy and its continuing influence in shaping economic policies and producing leaders in various sectors worldwide.
