Professor Kayode Adebowale, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, has shown that public institutions are responsible for almost 96% of the nation’s educational assets, highlighting their critical role in driving tertiary education.
While Nigeria has a total of 274 universities, including 62 federal universities, 63 state universities, and 149 private universities, both state and federal institutions continue to serve as the backbone of tertiary education, supporting the country’s tertiary education system.
Professor Adebowale delivered these statements during a courtesy visit by members of the Anatomical Society of Nigeria, led by its national president, Professor Barnabas Danborno, to begin the 20th annual scientific conference and general meeting of the body.
The theme of the three-day conference was “Anatomy in Health and Disease: Exploring the Potentials of Microscopy and Anthropometry.”
The VC emphasised that research, rather than physical infrastructure, is the primary driver of a university’s success, which is why the University of Ibadan regularly conducts and sponsors conferences.
Emeritus Professor Ayodele Babajide Olukoya Desalu, Nigeria’s oldest and longest-living medically qualified anatomist, was also on the team. He was praised for his significant contributions to the field of anatomy in Nigeria and his unwavering involvement at the age of 92.
Professor Adebowale praised the Department of Anatomy at UI for its unity of purpose, appreciating the joint work of seasoned professionals as well as emerging scholars.
He expressed gratitude to the agency for keeping the flag flying and providing community services and pledged ongoing support.
Professor A. B. O. Desalu, a Nigerian anatomy doyen, remembered in his remarks that medical students were the first group of students to attend lectures at the University of Ibadan’s permanent site.
The national president of the Anatomical Society of Nigeria, Professor Barnabas Danborno, expressed gratitude to the institution’s management team for their hospitality and for hosting the 20th conference. He also recognised the staff’s contributions to the success of the scientific conference.