Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
… Highlights the Roles of Statistics in Policy, Development
By Joy Adeyiga
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing statistical education and research by hosting the 3rd International Conference of the International Association of Survey Statisticians (IASS)-Royal Statistical Society (RSS) Nigerian Local Group.
Declaring the Conference opened on March 6, 2025, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, called on scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to engage in meaningful discussions, share innovative ideas, and explore collaborations that would drive progress in survey statistics, data science, and policy-driven research.
Speaking on the theme, “The Power of Statistics for a Better Future,” Prof. Kehinde underscored the pivotal role of statistics in shaping policies, driving evidence-based decision-making, and addressing real-world challenges. He emphasised that the conference provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, fostering partnerships, and advancing statistical methodologies for national and global development.
The Vice-Chancellor also extended his appreciation to IASS and RSS United Kingdom for their dedication to capacity-building and their contributions to strengthening statistical education, research, and professional practice in Nigeria. He commended their role in empowering researchers and nurturing the next generation of statisticians.
Welcoming the Keynote Speaker, Prof. Natalie Shlomo of the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, the Vice-Chancellor lauded her leadership and unwavering commitment to the statistical community.
In his remarks, the Chair of the RSS Nigeria Local Group and Country Representative for IASS, Prof. Olaniyi Olayiwola, expressed gratitude to the Association for its continuous support and commitment to professional development in Nigeria. He highlighted that since its establishment, the RSS Nigeria Local Group has championed statistical excellence, with the conference serving as a testament to its dedication to advancing statistical research and applications.
Prof. Olayiwola also acknowledged FUNAAB’s consistent support for the group since 2018, recognising the University as a vital partner in promoting statistical education and research.
Similarly, the Dean of the College of Physical Sciences (COLPHYS), Prof. Adio Akinwale, welcomed participants and commended the Association for the successful conference. Prof. Akinwale, also the Chairman, Committee of Deans and Directors (CODAD), appreciated scholars who submitted their research papers promptly and acknowledged the generosity of individuals who sponsored students to participate in the event. He urged attendees to engage in productive discussions and seize the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of statistical knowledge and practice.
The 3rd IASS-RSS Nigeria International Conference brought together Statisticians, Academics, and policymakers from Nigeria and beyond, reinforcing the critical role of statistics in addressing contemporary societal challenges. The event underscored FUNAAB’s unwavering commitment to fostering statistical education, research, and collaboration for national development.
