The Chancellor of Covenant University, Dr. David O. Oyedepo, has called on researchers in the institution to focus on research that can be transformed into tangible products. He emphasized the need to shift away from purely theoretical or paper-based research that does not translate into practical benefits, especially for Africa.
Dr. Oyedepo made this call during the University’s 34th Inaugural Lecture, delivered by Professor Akan B. Williams, a former Acting Vice-Chancellor, on June 27, 2025, at the University Chapel.
He expressed concern about the prevailing trend among African researchers to pursue academic publications that often end up unused on shelves, while the continent continues to grapple with urgent socio-economic and environmental challenges. "There are problems all around us that need immediate solutions, not abstract knowledge that serves no one," he stated.
The Chancellor urged researchers to take proactive steps in solving real-world problems, just as Africa's forefathers did in their time. He also encouraged the University management to begin turning public and inaugural lectures into actionable solutions and marketable products, instead of allowing valuable research to gather dust.
"It is time to turn papers into products," Dr. Oyedepo declared. "Let us clean up our environment before the environment cleans us out!"
During the lecture titled, ‘The Burdens of Pollution: The Imperative for Environmental Clean-Up,’ Professor Akan B. Williams shared insights from his extensive research into environmental pollution. His studies have focused on managing waste, both organic and inorganic, and developing sustainable environmental practices. He highlighted his use of natural materials such as sugarcane peels and his analysis of fish species to determine levels of toxicity in polluted waters.
Professor Williams advocated for stronger government enforcement of environmental protection laws. He called for the reintroduction of public health officers who would monitor environmental conditions and enforce public hygiene regulations. "A healthy nation," he noted, "is a happy nation."
In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Timothy Anake stressed that maintaining a clean environment requires deliberate and collective efforts. He praised Professor Williams for his impactful contributions as Director of the Covenant University Central Instrumentation Laboratory, an important facility that supports the University’s vision of high-impact, applied research.
Professor Anake further noted that Professor Williams is a key figure in the realization of the University's Vision 7:20:30 initiative, aligning with Covenant University’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Vice-Chancellor affirmed that the University is adopting a holistic ‘waste-to-wealth’ approach, fostering strong community impact while actively engaging students in environmental sustainability efforts.