Emeritus Prof. Ekhaguere sounds the bugle for STEMM at Ayoola's landmark valedictory lecture

In a resounding endorsement of the transformative power of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM), Emeritus Professor Godwin Osakpemwoya Ekhaguere (NNOM) has issued a stirring call to action, beating the drum for a new era of innovation and progress in Nigeria. The veteran academic and quantum stochastic differential equations (QSDEs) champion made the passionate plea during an exclusive interview with Dr. Kehinde Adenegan, Executive Secretary of the ADEMMAK Global Events Showbiz AGES and anchor of the popular Yoruba Mathematics Class YouTube channel (YMC).

The interview took place on the historic occasion of Professor Ezekiel Olusola Ayoola's valedictory lecture, "Behind the Closed Doors: My Academic, Administrative, and Spiritual Experiences," held at the iconic Trenchard Hall of the University of Ibadan on September 26, 2025. The milestone event marked Professor Ayoola's 70th birthday and a lifetime of groundbreaking contributions to academia.

Professor Godwin Samuel Ekhaguere's impassioned advocacy for STEMM underscores the critical role these disciplines play in driving national development, economic growth, and societal advancement. As the nation grapples with myriad challenges, from healthcare and infrastructure to energy and security, the need for innovative solutions and homegrown talent has never been more pressing. Ekhaguere recalled how scholarships were available for students in the time past for studying sciences and still urged the government and well meaning individuals to support same course.

"STEMM is the lifeblood of modern society," Professor Ekhaguere declared. "It is the engine that drives progress, the spark that ignites innovation, and the foundation upon which nations are built. As we look to the future, it is imperative that we prioritize STEMM education, invest in our young minds, and empower them to become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow." He handed over a remarkable advice to the young generation of academics to be more involving and evolving in skills and knowledge acquisition, as well as dissemination to keep the academic tracks.

Meanwhile, the name of the one time Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) award winner, and a 'warlord' in theoretical physics and mathematics (quantum stochastic differential equations), Ekhaguere kept resonating in the voice of the Valedictorian, Ayoola who described him as a God sent angel that opened the closed doors to his academic attainments. "GOS Ekhaguere has been a great mentor and motivator who has produced many mentees and mentors and on his shoulder, people like me have climbed", Ayoola posited.

The valedictory lecture, which drew a Who's Who of academia, government, and industry, was a testament to Professor Ayoola's enduring legacy and commitment to excellence. His remarkable journey, marked by trailblazing research, inspirational mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge, has left an indelible mark on the academic landscape of Nigeria.

As Professor Ayoola embarks on this new chapter in his life, the academic community and beyond are celebrating his achievements and reflecting on the lessons learned from his remarkable career. His valedictory lecture served as a poignant reminder of the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose in shaping the lives of individuals and the trajectory of nations.

Meanwhile, in the words of Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, a one-time VC of the university, "Today, we honor not just Professor Ayoola's achievements but the values he embodies – a love of learning, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for making a difference. As we look to the future, let us draw inspiration from his example and strive to build a brighter, more prosperous Nigeria for all. Ayoola is an honest man whose words can just be taken to the bank"

Indeed, Prof. Ayoola's valedictory lecture and retirement serve as a reminder to all and sundry still in service to learn to do good and the right thing because the reward is waiting in lump sum as the name of Prof. Ekhaguere kept resonating as a "saviour", motivator and mentor in the words and eulogies of Ayoola. The Valedictorian mentees, coordinated by Prof. Michael Ogundiran of the Obafemi Awolowo University, were also present in their numbers to support and honour their valuable lecturers. They also made a compendium of virtual tributes to their mentor.

By Seun Akinlose for YMC

Published: September 26, 2025

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