In a powerful address during Babcock University's matriculation ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ademola Tayo declared that Nigeria urgently requires functional, industry-relevant research to tackle the country's pressing challenges.
A New Direction for Nigerian Research
The Vice-Chancellor spoke before 3,432 newly admitted undergraduate and postgraduate students at the institution's amphitheatre on Thursday, emphasizing that Nigeria and Africa can no longer afford theoretical, recycled research approaches. Professor Tayo, a development education expert, stressed that academic inquiries must solve real problems in critical sectors including health, agriculture, technology, finance, education, governance, and environment.
"Conduct research that speaks to national development, not just research that earns a degree," Professor Tayo advised the gathering. He encouraged students and academics to build collaborations with industry, government agencies, think-tanks, and innovation hubs to ensure their work has practical applications.
Character Building and Academic Excellence
Professor Tayo, who completes his tenure on December 1 after serving two five-year terms, urged the new students to prioritize humility and academic excellence while avoiding hooliganism, cultism, and other vices that could jeopardize their education. The university maintains zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, hooliganism, corruption, and all forms of immorality.
The outgoing VC reminded students that success requires "discipline, diligence, humility, and reliance on God." He emphasized commitment to regular attendance, timely assignment submission, and active participation in academic activities. Parents and guardians were called upon to partner with the university in maintaining a peaceful and secure learning environment.
Investing in 21st Century Education
Professor Tayo highlighted the university's significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and human resources to match contemporary realities. "Our ICT systems are continually upgraded, powered by a modern data centre and resilient energy systems that guarantee a conducive learning environment," he stated.
The university's campus IPTV platform, smart classrooms, and digital learning tools ensure students are prepared for the fast-evolving digital landscape. Despite global economic instability, moral uncertainty, and rapid technological changes, Professor Tayo expressed confidence that Babcock's academic training and character molding would produce innovators, problem-solvers, and future leaders.
A Legacy of Integrity and Service
The matriculation ceremony also featured the unveiling of a 400-page biography titled "Ademola S. Tayo: The Unlikely and Creditable Vice-Chancellor," celebrating his ten years of leadership. The book, containing 47 chapters, highlights values such as integrity, godliness, prudence, and commitment to service demonstrated during his tenure.
Professor Tayo shared a revealing anecdote about a parent who attempted to bribe him with what he described as a "staggering sum of money" to overturn a disciplinary decision involving their daughter. He used this example to emphasize how leaders prioritizing integrity can drive accountability, fairness, and good governance.
"When leaders prioritise integrity, there is accountability, there is fairness, there won't be fund diversion, and good governance, growth, and development are encouraged," Professor Tayo asserted.
The Vice-Chancellor explained his cautious approach to relationships during his administration, noting that he deliberately avoided becoming indebted to anyone who might later exploit such relationships to compromise his principles. His commitment to integrity extended even to personal matters, as he struggled with allowing his daughter to marry during his tenure due to concerns about potential financial influences.
