The Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, College of Environmental Resources Management (COLERM) had organised a befitting lecture and send-forth party in appreciation of one of its founding staff, Professor Samuel Akinyele Onadeko.
Delivering a Valedictory lecture in honour of Professor Onadeko titled “Enhancing Your Research Output with the Use of Geographic Information System”. Dr. Daniel Akintunde-Alo of the Department of Social and Environmental Forestry, University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan, identified inadequate data, climate change and insecurity as the crux of qualitative research.
According to him, other areas that the Geographical Information System (GIS) can assist research are multi-criteria analysis, use of drones as well as Environmental and Social Impact Assessment.
Extolling the virtues of the retireree, the Acting Head of Department, Dr. Aderemi Shotuyo described Professor Onadeko as a role model and mentor for all members of staff of the Department. He added that the send-forth party was organized to appreciate the positive, wonderful and invaluable contributions of the retiree to the growth and development of the Department over the years.
On his part, the Dean, College of Environmental Resources Management (COLERM), Professor Isaac Omoniyi commended the honouree for laying a good and solid foundation in the Department and at the College level, saying that Professor Onadeko was approachable, hospitable and a generous giver with a large heart, always willing to help.
While introducing the celebrant, Professor Omotola Jayeola described Professor Onadeko as a man of the people, a lover of younger ones, an enigma, a cheerful giver and an academic mentor par excellence. He appreciated the Pioneer Director, FUNAAB Zoological Park for his numerous and outstanding achievements in academics as his products are everywhere.
Goodwill messages were also delivered by Professor Samuel Oluwalana, Professor Clement Adeofun, among others. They were united in their assessment of the retired Professor as an academic colossus, a father and a mentor.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kolawole Salako appreciated the celebrant on behalf of the University for his contributions to the advancement of knowledge through the institution, adding that he has received God’s grace and blessings. Represented by the Dean, Postgraduate School and Chairman, Committee of Deans and Directors (CODAD), Professor Wilfred Alegbeleye, Professor Salako said the honouree was still relevant in the system because his products are on ground and are doing wonderfully well. He commended his generosity and mentoring prowess which he described as second to none.
In his response, Professor Samuel Onadeko returned all the glory to the Almighty God. He thanked the University for giving him the opportunity to serve and appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kolawole Salako, the Onadeko’s and everyone that has contributed to his success in academics.
