The Publicity team is proud to showcase and share the experiences of our amazing President, Professor Oluyemisi Fawole, a Professor of Soil Microbiology in the Department of Agronomy, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria, an astute researcher and a renowned administrator.

Publicity Secretary (PS): Please tell us a little about your background.

Prof Oluyemisi Fawole (POF): I am a native of Esun Ekiti, Ikole Local Government, Ekiti State, Nigeria. I was born at Ilesa, Osun state to Pa Z. A. Komolafe of blessed memory and Ma R. A. Komolafe on 24th September 1962.  My parents settled down and raised their family at Ilesa. I am a second child in a family of five children. My mum was a Nurse at Wesley Guild Hospital where there were a number of white missionaries and their families who became our family friends. I have memories of a fun filled childhood in this community, from ‘brownies’ to Sunday school activities. I started school early because I accompanied my dad, a school head teacher to school and got promoted to the next class at the end of the first year because I competed well with other students enrolled in the class.

I attended Ogudu Methodist Primary School and St Margaret’s Anglican Girls Grammar School, at Ilesa. My first degree, B.Sc. Microbiology, was obtained in the University of Ilorin,   Kwara State, Nigeria in 1982 while my Masters and Doctorate degrees were from the University of Ibadan in 1985 and 1990 respectively. 

When I completed the third year of my secondary school education, I went for holidays at my aunt’s place. My aunt’s husband was then a Professor of Botany at the University of Ibadan. I followed him to his office and his laboratory a number of times where I was made to sit and study a biology text book. The neat laboratory, scientists in white laboratory coats and the serene environment of the University made an impression on my young heart and this guided my choice of career. Biology was my best subject in the secondary school, so I decided to have a degree in the biological sciences. As an undergraduate student, I fell in love with microbiology courses and particularly the practical aspects that showed the importance of microbial processes.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise.

POF: While on my Doctorate degree, a search for microbial enzymes that could be of industrial use led me to work on soils from refuse dumps of fruit processing companies at Ibadan. I got interested in studying metabolites from soil borne microorganisms and possibility of using the microorganisms as inoculants in improving soil fertility or for control of pests without damaging the environment. My research focus has thus been to develop bio-fertilizers & bio-pesticides from soil microorganisms which are eco-friendly alternatives to chemicals for improved crop production. Phosphorus solubilizing bio-fertilizers are currently being developed from soil fungi.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact oriented activities.

POF: I was appointed as the Sub-dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin in 2006. This office gave me an opportunity to interact more closely with many students in the faculty. I was able to counsel many weak students and some students who came into the field of Agriculture without passion for the course   probably because they could not get admission into Medicine. Some even came in with low self- esteem and battered ego from spending few years in College of Medicine and not being in good standing.

In my interactions with such students, I made them see the prospects in having a career in agriculture and a number of them are successful agricultural scientists today. I took up appointment as Assistant Director of the Centre for International Education of my University in 2010. I had the opportunity of receiving international students and helping them settle into our University. I coordinated exchange programs for students between our University and some foreign Universities. 

I was elected as President of my Cooperative Society in the University from 2010 to 2013. I led the cooperative to build a standard female hostel for students on the University campus. I served in the Department of Agronomy as Ag. Head of Department from 2015 to 2017 and I am currently the Chairperson of the University Guest House Management Board. I oversee the accommodation unit and catering Department of the University Guest House. I was a member of Ekiti State Economic Advisory Council from 2007 to 2008 and later the Ekiti State Economic Development Council (2008-2010).  

I won the fellowship of the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) in 2015. The fellowship exposed me to more community based activities. I brought together a team of female agricultural scientists in my faculty after completion of the 2-year AWARD fellowship. The group formed research teams to find solutions to problems in the community with a gender responsive focus. Capacity building programs were started in the faculty. I was part of the organizing and coordinating committee for a mentoring workshop for female agricultural scientists in the University of Ilorin and a number of mentors who were in attendance were encouraged to give formal mentoring to female scientists in the faculty.  This group was inaugurated as Unilorin chapter of NiWARD. 

I led the chapter to carry out some social activities in the university neighbouring communities. In collaboration with Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), the vegetable basket for prolonged storage of vegetables were introduced for adoption. I was elected as the national president of NiWARD during 2020 Annual General Meeting. I have been coordinating the activities of the association since then till date, making sure the light lit by the AWARD fellowship keeps burning in all regions of Nigeria.

Over the years, I have been invited to many secondary schools to give career talks. I am passionate about getting young ones interested in agriculture and exposing them to different aspects which will guide them in choosing careers that will ensure agricultural and economic development in the nation. I have also invited secondary school students from different schools to the university community for career talks.

My research activities have been largely in the field of Soil Microbiology.  I have worked on ‘Soil Microbial Ecology’ concentrating on factors affecting distribution of soil micro-organisms and soil microbial processes. I identified soil microflora that produce pectolytic enzymes that could be of use in fruit processing industries.  I studied the non-target effects of commonly used herbicides on soil microflora. I have carried out studies on deterioration of seeds, seedlings and fruits.  I have also worked on the manipulation of soil microbial populations with soil amendments for improved soil fertility. My current research activities are geared towards providing eco-friendly alternatives to chemicals used in improving soil fertility. I evaluate soil microorganisms for use as bio-control agents and bio-fertilizers. I am developing a phosphorus bio-fertilizer from highly solubilizing soil fungal flora 

PS: Do you face any challenge because of your gender as a female at your work place or in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

POF: I have worked side by side with the male gender with ease over the years. There is usually an initial feeling of one’s ability being under scrutiny for being female. I however discovered that within a short period of working with men, they become friendly and we are balanced. The feedback received at a send forth get-together after completing my tenure in an administrative position as the Sub-dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin (2006-2010) made me realize that though there were initial apprehensions about a woman holding the post, my attitude to work, sense of responsibility and efficient delivery allayed their fears and made me accepted and appreciated. I was the first woman to hold that particular office in my faculty but at the end, all feelings of ‘can a woman handle this office?’ was totally removed. 

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

POF: The greatest motivation I have had over the years is from the almighty God who has sustained, strengthened and guided me despite the many challenges on my career path. My faith in the Lord Jesus Christ has been kept me going from strength to strength.  I have been motivated to continue growing as a teacher and a researcher in the university by the outcome of my efforts over the years. Feedback from students that I have trained and the successes they have been recording have been a source of motivation for me. My husband- Prof. Adegboyega Fawole of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and our dear children have also been so supportive over the years. 

My husband was raised in an academic environment and as a medical practitioner and a university teacher/ researcher he has an understanding of how involving the job of a scientist can be. He gave me all the support needed, encouragement in challenging times and helping hands in caring for our children when they were younger. Our three Children made parenting a pleasurable experience for us.  Striking a balance between career and family was not difficult for me. In taking decisions, my family was always my first consideration but because I have supportive loved ones, my career did not suffer.  The pride that my parents and siblings have in my career success was also motivating.

The fact that my research efforts are part of the solution to the problem of poor crop productivity due to unhealthy soils is another source of motivation.  Any promise of improved soil fertility,  finding alternatives to use of chemicals that affect biodiversity negatively and thus contribute to ensuring food security motivates me to do more research.  The AWARD fellowship gave me room for personal development and as such I have been inspired and motivated by many AWARD trainings I received. The AWARD Mentoring Orientation Workshop, the Scientific   Skills Course and the Women Leadership and Management Training prepared me for more action as a teacher and researcher.

I learnt to be visible, to be assertive, to see issues through the gender lens and to write grant winning proposals and internationally acceptable scientific papers. The three month of AWARD sponsored Advanced Science Training that I had at Bayer Crop Science, Morrisville, North Carolina, USA from March to June, 2017 prepared me for more in-depth research activities.

PS: Please share with us your future aspiration.

POF: Since I became a Professor of Soil Microbiology in 2017, my desire has been that more female agricultural scientists will rise to the professorial cadre in my faculty.  A gender balance will enhance development in agricultural research.  I plan to continue working with the Unilorin NiWARD chapter to encourage upcoming ones and organize more capacity building programs. I also aspire to reach out to more communities around the university to proffer solutions to problems faced by women farmers. I look forward to starting an NGO that will be a platform for reaching the “girl child” for career mentoring and the female farmers for enhanced food security and improved economic power. 

PS: Apart from research, what others things do you love doing?

POF: Apart from my work in research and lecturing, I love counseling youths, I mentor young people and teach a teenagers’ class in church.  I also love reading novels and Christian literature.

We are thrilled by the experiences of Prof (Mrs) Funke I. Olagunju- the Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Oyo state, Nigeria, as we celebrate her this month. The Publicity team is excited to share her inspiring interview
for the October edition of our monthly showcase.

Publicity Secretary (PS): Please tell us about your background.

Funke Olagunju (FO): I was born into the reverend family of Late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Babatude Odunlami who hailed from Itunyeleru Compound, Ijebu Isiwo, Ogun State, on the 12th of October, 1971. My parents lived in Ibadan, Oyo State till they passed on to eternal glory. I started my educational pursuit from Onireke Nursery and Primary School, Onireke
Ibadan at the ripe age of four years. Due to family relocation to a farther destination, I completed my primary education at Ibadan District Council, Erinkoja-Obe, Owode Estate, Apata Ibadan by the year 1983.

In 1984, I gained admission to St Michael’s African Church Grammar School, Owode Estate Apata, Ibadan where I got distinctions in all my science subjects. My secondary school education was very interesting. I was loved by almost all my teachers due to my ability to display gentle habits, dedication and hard work. This led to beefing among my colleagues especially female students, though I was able to handle the
situation by providing any required assistance (extra coaching) to my friends so as to make them meet up in the class. With this act, I was able to gain their loyalty and we peacefully co-existed. I was the class captain from form one till form four and eventually became the head
girl in the final year. Going through secondary school was so exciting as I discovered that I had passion for science subjects and also have leadership spirit.

In 1990, I gained admission to the then Oyo State University of Technology (OSUTECH) but was later changed to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. By 1995, I graduated with second-class upper division in Agricultural Economics. In 1996/1997 I went for NYSC service year at Baptist Girls High School, Gbodofon Osogbo.

PS: Growing up, did you have any experience that informed your choice of career?

FO: Despite the fact that I come from a humble, well-informed and educated family, my humble background did not mean that I had no shoes. I was never denied education despite the rampant notion in those days which my maternal grandfather also shared, that no matter what achievements females made in life, they would end up in a man’s kitchen.

However, this belief, due to which my mother was denied education in her own days, became the impetus that inspired her resolve to send me, and of course, all of her girl children to school against all odds. My father was a class teacher and a Modern Three school principal, who later by dint of ambition and hard work furthered his education, and became a civil engineer until his death in 2013. My mother’s story and choice to educate the girl child, coupled with my father’s lifestyle motivated me to take to science, and inspired my determination to stay focused and to get to the peak of my chosen career. With this at the back of my mind, I decided to face my education with keen interest and the determination to make it to the point where I could also make impact in people’s lives.

My parents’ footprints encouraged me to stay motivated and focused and thus instigated a spirit of resilience in me, never to give up on
my studies even in the face of financial challenges. I followed my instinct, made good grades, and made the best terminal results in my school with distinction in all of my science subjects in 1989 at St Michael’s African Church Grammar School, Owode Estate Apata, Ibadan.
Thereafter, I became a reference point to other girls in my community.

Furthermore, my parents, especially my mother, were also farmers in addition to my father’s job as a civil engineer. My mother belonged to an association of women farmers in my community where their major challenge was post-harvest losses. This further instigated my interests in
agriculture, agricultural technology, and agribusiness in the rural areas and among, especially, female smallholder farmers. This has informed my choice to pursue an academic career in the Department of Agricultural Economics, and my intention to see how value could be added to agricultural produce that suffers after-harvest losses and degradation with the intention of increasing the farmers’ profits.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise?

FO: The challenges that my parents and their farming group members faced from lower farm income due to losses incurred after produce harvest, lack of market access and low or no financial aids made it easier for me to choose agribusiness aspect of agricultural economics as
my area of specialization. Immediately after serving on the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) scheme after university graduation, I was employed to teach Agricultural Sciences on temporary basis as Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) teacher at Nurudeen Grammar
School for 7 months. Later on, I was gainfully employed in the department of Agricultural Economics at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso as Graduate Assistant.

My undergraduate thesis was basically on production economics where I discovered that the technical know -how is not the major challenge for the farmers but how to secure means of actualizing their dreams. I’m talking about financial aids. Afterwards I proceeded to Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria where I bagged my Master of Science (M.Sc) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in the year 2001 and 2006 respectively with the option of Agricultural Economics.

From the experiences I gathered from the past, I decided to opt for the impact of credit corporations on food production of farmers, agricultural credit administration and farmers’ repayment performances. These were well captured in both my M.sc and Ph.D. theses “ Impact of Osun State Agricultural Credit Corporation (OSACC) on Food Production in Osun State, Nigeria” and “Agricultural Credit Administration and Repayment Performance in South western Nigeria” respectively.

Fortunately, these research titles revealed an emerging trend of a researcher who is an advocate for financial inclusions in agricultural production, processing, value addition and food security.
Therefore, my research interests were geared towards Economics of Poverty and Food Security, Climate Change Adaptation, Impact Assessment and Sustainability and Value Chain and Food System Analysis especially for women (one of the vulnerable groups). From
this backdrop, I had access to some short courses (just to mention a few) to improve my expertise in the chosen field.

Some of them include:

1. Netherlands Fellowship Program grant for attending Short Course fellowship on ‘Optimizing the Performance of Producers’ Organizations (OPPO): Farmers in Agribusiness’ at Wageningen University,
2. African Growth and Development Consortium grant for attending training course on Poverty Measurement and Analysis at Dakar;
3. African Growth and Development Consortium grant for attending training clinic on tools for gender thematic area, NAIP Appraisal and Design ProcessTraining, Dakar, Senegal;
4. Orange Knowledge Program grant for attending workshop on Building Agribusiness Relations For Sustainable Profit-Key Skills for Inclusive Business Brokerage at Ibadan and
5. Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel grant for Regional Course for African Countries: “Agribusiness: A Tool for the Empowerment of Rural Women”.
   With my exposure to international trainings, my research team and I worked extensively on value addition to farm produce especially stem and root crops to provide solutions to problems encountered with post-harvest losses. The farmers/processors were advised and assisted in providing linkages with credit sources so that they could increase the volume and quality of their product because there is ready market for these products in the local market areas. Establishment of cassava flour industries by investors were encouraged because of high demands for the products in the area clamouring for creation and encouragement of more off-farm activities like processing, storage and marketing. It is envisaged that increased production of such produces will generate employment opportunities for the rural households (especially women). Efficient post-harvest handling, storage and marketing can tremendously contribute to social economic aspects of rural communities in Nigeria and notable application of the training has the potential of minimizing the menace of nutrition insecurity in the country.

I worked as a visiting lecturer at the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, kwara State and later at Landmark University, OmuAran, kwara state. I had the taste of both Federal and Private university settings. I had the opportunity to work (in diversity) with different farm communities at different times, so was able to make impact on people’s lives through my research and teaching.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact oriented activities and research.

FO: Building capacities of students, farmers and processors to encourage self-confidence, promote sustainable food production, increased income and improve livelihood have been my impact oriented activities and research. I have taken the scope of my research farther towards female gender livelihoods, coping strategies and food security. This was evident in the 2009 – 2012 TETFUND Research Project Intervention research grant that I received some years back where physical and practical demonstration of adding value to cassava tubers by producing instant ‘Fufu’ Powder for small holder women farmers in Oriire Local Government, Oyo State was carried out.

As part of my community service to my institution and to society at large, I have provided targeted solutions to some agribusiness challenges locally and nationally and also offered administrative and other services to the University community. An example of such interventions was the creation of Agribusiness Research Group (ARG) among my colleagues and Postgraduate students through which I have mentored many younger researchers, academic faculty members, and built their agribusiness research, administrative and leadership capacities. I have also played some leadership role in Development Economics Research Group (DERG), founded by a colleague from University of Ilorin (Prof. Babatude,R.O) who has a long-standing record in teaching and mentoring both undergraduate and graduate students who have special interest in agribusiness, marketing agricultural finance and policy development.

In developing my mentoring capacity, I secured a post-doctoral Fellowship of the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD; 2013-2015), and the Netherlands Fellowship for Agribusiness Programme (2013 and 2018). I was also a resource person for the mentor-mentee programme at AWARD, through which a graduate student (Awe, Titilola) in the Department of Agricultural Economics, LAUTECH also became an AWARD Fellow Mentee.

At the local/university outreach level, I also organised a role modelling event to familiarize the female students of Ogbomoso Baptist High School, Ogbomoso in 2015, on what it takes to pursue agricultural Science as a career. On a social level, I have been the matron of the
Man O’ War in LAUTECH from 2012 to date.

Some of my national level community services include giving a public lecture on the issues and options available to the building industry in Nigeria during economic recession’ a paper presented at the 13th Annual regional Conference of Nigerian Institute of Surveyors (Women
in Surveying) held at the Leisure Spring Hotel, Osogbo in 2017.

I have worked in various administrative capacities at University, Faculty, and Departmental levels. I have carried out 10 different official community service functions for my department, the Department of Agricultural Economics in the past 18 years. I was privileged to have been the Staff Advisor to 200 and 300 Level students of the Department of Agricultural Economics; the Chairman of the department’s finance committee; member of the Departmental Undergraduate Seminar Committee; and member of the department’s Staff Seminar Committee. My other departmental community functions include serving as Business Manager for the International Journal of Agricultural Economics and Rural
Development(IJAERD); Chairperson of the Departmental Journal; member of the Departmental Review Committee; and Chairman of the Departmental Examination/Result Processing Committee. Presently, I am the Head of Department, Agricultural Economics.

PS: Do you face any challenge because of your gender as a female in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

FO: Being a female has assisted me tremendously in my place of work. I had stood in the gaps for many female students who in one way or the other have been marginalized or cheated in the course of pursuing their life career. This includes molestations from male students, sexual harassment from male lecturers and students etc. When such cases arise, I am among those beckoned upon in the department to mediate in such matters. In fact, we have more than 5 female lecturers in my department, whose presence have contributed positively to my chosen career growth. Due to this social role, some of our male gender colleagues used to pick offence and hence partially affect our team work.

As an assertive leader, it was so easy to surmount such challenges with unwavering behaviour, leading by examples and being upright. Let me also say here that being a female paved way for seamlessly interactions with my respondents on the field for data collections while conducting various field surveys. In addition, being a female had assisted in my nominations for several capacity building trainings and professional opportunities both local and international since preferences were always given to female applicants.

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

FO: When you solely depend on Solid Rock, Jesus Christ as your foundation and pillar of support, I can categorically tell you that you have nothing to fear. God is my divine inspiration from whom I draw my motivation. I had received grace to balance my life and work career. I also have the support of my darling husband, Prince A.B.C. Olagunju who has been there for me right from my Masters days. He has been a support especially in taking good care of the home front whenever I was away for studies, conference or workshop.

My colleagues at work have been good guidance to me, my willingness to mentor others and collaborate with them have also contributed to my growth. I’m a woman of great passion, enthusiastic and relate freely with colleagues. I prioritize my family above any other events so that I can have peace in delivering my expected jobs. Delegation is part of my watch word for official duties. I make use of my colleagues to achieve a lot. Investing in people is a great gain.

I don’t mind saying “No” to some offers when I feel I can’t cope with such work load. In a nutshell, I have an enabling and comfortable environment. These positive motivations did not rule out some challenges but I can categorically say that they were not strong enough to
hinder my career progression. All glory be to God.

PS: Please share with us your future aspirations

FO: I had the opportunity of benefitting from AWARDS in the past years 2013 to 2014, where we were trained to develop our long term plans. I could remember that on my road purpose map chart, I had at the top, to become a CEO of an NGO that will advocate for enhanced value addition for agricultural processing women. This is already in a pipe line and I believe very soon it will come to pass. Secondly, I will continue to positively make positive impacts in the lives of people around me.

PS: Apart from research and lecturing, what other thing(s) do you love doing?

FO: I love surfing internet for interesting short movies. I love travelling for conferences, workshop, reading interesting stories. Above all, I enjoy the presence of God in prayers and singing of inspirational songs.

We are excited to share and celebrate the achievements of a very innovative scientist- Dr. Ronke Yemisi Aderinboye, an Associate Professor of Ruminant Nutrition in the Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun
State, Nigeria.

Publicity Secretary (PS): Kindly tell us a little about your background. Ronke Yemisi Aderinboye (RYA): My name is Ronke Yemisi Aderinboye (nee
Fajuke). I am a native of Ijesa land in Osun State, Nigeria. I was born in Sokoto State right in the town of Sokoto forty-nine years ago, precisely July 14, 1973 to the family of Mr. and Mrs. Oluwole Fajuke. I am the second of four children, who are all girls. I grew up in the North, and there I had my primary, secondary and undergraduate education.

For my primary school education, I attended the Model Primary School at Birnin- Kebbi road, Sokoto. I proceeded to Federal Government College, Sokoto, where I completed my secondary education from 1984 to 1990. I later gained admission into the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, where I had my first degree in Agriculture (B. Agric., Animal Science). The National Youth Service Corps program finally moved me to the South, precisely to Oyo State. So, after my youth service in the year 2000, I decided to proceed for postgraduate studies at the University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where I bagged my Master’s and doctoral degrees in 2002 and 2007, respectively.

PS: Growing up, did you have any experience that informed your choice of career?

RYA: I applied for the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) with the aim of becoming a Pharmacist. That was my dream but it was modified by my JAMB examination result. I found myself placed to study Agriculture. I was encouraged then by an uncle, Professor O. A. Osinowo (now a retired Professor of Animal Physiology), through whom I gained entrance into the Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria to study Animal Science. And of course, my parents

were supportive all through. That was the beginning of my career journey in the field of Agriculture to becoming a lecturer and researcher.

Funny though, growing up as a child, teaching was my most loved play role. You know how kids play, imitating professional roles. I always played the role of a teacher who lived in Abeokuta. So, I was often called “Iya Abeokuta”. I have an aunt who till today refers to me as “teacher mi” (my teacher) as a result of my childhood displays. Looking back, I realized the power of the tongue. You actually have whatsoever you say. Now indeed, I am a teacher in Abeokuta, lecturing and doing research in the field of Agriculture.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise?

RYA: I developed full-blown interest in my career as a Ruminant Nutritionist when I did my National Youth Service in 1999 at the International Livestock Research Institute, Ibadan. Then, I was involved in a research which focused on improving the nutritive value of low quality forages for ruminant feeding. I worked with many Scientists, including Dr. Asamoah Larbi, I was highly motivated and my career path became clearer. This was why I proceeded for my postgraduate studies immediately after my service year. Above all, I can say, God has been the one leading and directing my path.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact oriented activities and research.

RYA: Ruminant production systems are known to contribute significantly to global warming through enteric methane production. The emission of enteric methane at the same time limits feed utilization by ruminants and this lowering farm productivity. So, as a ruminant nutritionist, early in my career, I developed research interest in manipulating the rumen digestion processes, to lower methane emission to the environment and enhance ruminants’ nutritional performance.

I began by investigating into the use of antibiotic feed additives as rumen modifiers but the residual effect of feed antibiotics in milk and meat products and the concern for animal and human health led me into the search for natural alternative feed additives for ruminants. I have researched on extracts from a number of local herbs and spices which have phytogenic substances and these have been found effective as rumen

modifiers to reduce enteric methane emission and enhance feed utilization efficiency by ruminants. This will provide farmers with cheap, natural and readily available animal growth promoting feed additive to boost animal performance, and will also ensure safe meat products for consumers in addition to achieving an eco-friendly ruminant production system. My research in this area continues.

PS: Do you face any challenge because of your gender as a female at your work place or in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

RYA: I have come to understand that challenges are part of life’s package to make us resilient. Yes, challenges have come in diverse shapes and colours. At my work place, I navigate by telling myself that I am not in competition with any gender folk. I address challenges as they come. Some you need to address assertively and tackle them squarely while some others, you simply ignore. Your voice will always be heard where and when it is needed. With challenges in proffering solution to groups, I remember at a time we went for a field work in my early days as a researcher, and we visited a group of farmers who were extremely repulsive and unwilling to accept us.

They said there had been many of our colleagues who had come to collect information from them but never came back with a solution or intervention for them. This was a challenge then for us because we needed to get data. We had to provide incentives to penetrate the group. Then, I realized that your unfulfilled promises can become a seed sown to grow up as a torn for another researcher.

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

RYA: I have been taught very early in life that whatsoever your hand finds to do, you have to do it with all your might, as diligence makes you stand before kings. So, despite challenges, I gain strength from God to keep moving. I also have a loving and supportive husband who gives me every encouragement I need. At times I had to be outside home on research work, fellowships and related career pursuits, he was always willing to take-over the care of the kids in my absence. He is a good cook and the kids can attest to that. My mum too has been there for me.

Each time I make a beckon call, she answers. I also appreciate my children for showing understanding. Truly, I must say, balancing career and family has not been so easy but God has surrounded me with good people.

PS: Please share with us your future aspirations.

RYA: I desire to see the problems of smallholder farmers being solved. This I speak in terms of problem-solving oriented research. I aspire to grow and empower ruminant farmer groups by providing sustainable nutritional strategies which promote economically efficient and eco-friendly ruminant production systems. I aspire to intensify my mentoring support to early career researchers around me. I am also working towards the publication of some books of professional and societal impact.

PS: Apart from research or lecturing, what other thing(s) do you love doing?

RYA: I love resting and being around my family. I love writing inspirational articles and I love working among young ones.

The Publicity team has made another wonderful selection for our monthly spotlight. This month, we are happy to showcase Dr Muinat Bello, a Lecturer in the Department of Fisheries, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

Publicity Secretary (PS): Please tell us a little about your background.

Dr Muinat Bello (MB): I was born and brought up in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria to the family of Alhaji and Alhaja Bello Qudus. I grew up seeing my parents managing a frozen fish business. I attended Oke-Ona United School, Ilugun, Abeokuta, Ogun-state from 1974 to My secondary school education began at Ikija high school, Iberekodo, Abeokuta from 1980- 1983 after which I proceeded to Nawair ud deen Grammar School Obantoko,
Abeokuta, 1983-1985 and finished up at Salawu Abiola Comprehensive high school, Osiele, Ogun state, 1986- 19887.

I obtained my National Diploma in science laboratory technology between 1988 and 1990 from Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Ogun state. After the diploma program, I gained admission into the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria to study fisheries from 1990- to 1996. Then I moved to the University of Ibadan, Ibadan for my Masters in Fisheries Management, 2003- 2004. In the same university, I completed my Ph.D. in Fisheries Management (Post-harvest Fisheries Technology), 2014 – 2018.

PS: Growing up, did you have any experience that informed your choice of career?

MB: I intended to study MBBS at the University but as fate would have it, I didn’t get admission into the University immediately after secondary school. So, I was admitted into the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro where I studied Science laboratory technology. After my diploma, I still wanted to go for MBBS at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. However, JAMB gave me admission to study Fisheries at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria. I opted for Fisheries because of my background and experience in the frozen fish business which is a family business.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise.

MB: During my undergraduate days, I just made up my mind that, “whatever is worth doing, is worth doing well.” After my first degree, I specialized in Fisheries Management. My PhD gave me a Patent on a Hybrid Solar Dryer, which was the first in the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria breaking a record of 43years. I have no regret studying fisheries.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact-oriented activities.

MB: I am a mentor in the Women in Aquaculture mentoring cohort. I am the founder of Almuzairien Ventures (RC: 2942097) Empowerment farm which was established in July 2019 and still operating. I am also serving on the board of trustees for Zenith of the Girl Child and Women Initiative Support (ZEGCAWIS), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) from 2018 to date (RC: 119250). I am currently the second chairman of the board of
trustees of Fruit Tree Planting Initiative (FRUTPI) from 2018 to date (RC: 120341).

In addition to the above, I am a member of the board of trustees and founder of Aldimagh Al’ayman Initiative (RIGHT BRAIN INITIATIVE) from December 2018 to date.

PS: Do you face any challenges because of your gender as a female at your workplace or in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

MB: Challenges are part of life, instead of running away, I face them squarely. I’ve experienced a lot of challenges with my male counterparts in the office but I don’t take them as challenges. In fact, these challenges have indeed strengthened me. I had a lot of bitter experiences but I just give thanks to Almighty Allah who has never let me down. Whatever I am denied at the departmental level, Allah always elevates me at the university level. When it comes to challenges with groups, I don’t view them as challenges, but as differences in understanding and perception especially with female-dominated groups.

As the saying goes,” if you want to satisfy everyone, then sell ice cream”. Whatever they think they denied me at local level, I got them at both national and international level.

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

MB: I keep moving. I keep moving and I will continue to move because giving up is never a solution to the challenges. My objectives, and vision about life is to excel, be a role model and mentor to others, these are things that push me, no matter how difficult the journey. I am focused, persistent, prayerful, and patient, though it was never easy but I believe there is always light at the end of the tunnel. My mentors (Prof. N. A. Aviara), teachers, lecturers, colleagues, friends, and family are also my pillar when it gets tougher. When it comes to balancing career and family, time management has been the key ingredient that kept me going. I have specified time for everything I do because time itself is irreversible.

PS: Please share with us your future aspiration.

MB: My future aspiration is to be a successful researcher and a name in Aquaculture and Fisheries profession. I want to have more patent certificates. I want to change the status quo and break the barrier of gender inequalities.

PS: Apart from research, what others things do you love doing?

MB: I enjoy traveling, reading, attending conferences, mentoring, coaching, learning, unlearning and relearning new things. I love innovation bringing out new ideas, and new products and I am passionate about entrepreneurship.

We are thrilled by the experiences and astonishing works of Dr (Mrs) Blessing Okogbue as we celebrate her this month. Dr Okogbue is the Dean of the School of Agricultural Technology, Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The Publicity team is happy to share our inspiring interview for the May edition of our Scientist of the month with this phenomenal Scientist and Administrator.

Publicity Secretary (PS):

Please tell us about your background. Dr Blessing Okogbue (BO): I am Dr. (Mrs.) Blessing Chidinma Okogbue (nee Iroegbu). I am a Chief Lecturer in the Department of Fisheries Technology, Federal Polytechnic Ekowe, Bayelsa State. I hail from Isiama Afaraukwu Ibeku, a community in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. I was born in Jos, Plateau State on the 22nd day of June in the year nineteen hundred and seventy eight (1978). I am married with three wonderful children, a boy and two girls.

I started my primary education in Union Primary School, Umuahia. I moved to Mount Carmel Girls Secondary School, Emekuku in Imo State for my Secondary school education. I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries with a second class honors upper division from Michael Opkara University of Agriculture, Umudike in Abia State. I proceeded to University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State after the one year youth service (NYSC) programme in 2005 for post graduate degrees in Animal and Environmental Biology, Hydrobiology option (M.Sc.

in 2008) and a doctorate degree in Hydrobiology & Fisheries in 2014. I also obtained certificates in short courses in the area of Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (Monitoring & Evaluation of Fisheries Resources) and Wetland & Integrated Water Resources Management for Food Security from the Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands.

I grew up in a home where my parents started me on informal mentoring without my knowing it. My dad was a Lecturer in Engineering and guided us to be in line with our natural inclinations when choosing a career. My dad asked me one day what I will love to study in the University. That question jostled me to reality. And I retorted, Food Science and Technology. Yes, because I love cooking, I enjoy processing food stuffs and engaging in food-based activities in the house, especially, when I traveled, I found myself in the kitchen and gardens in every home I visited on holidays. My dad concurred that it was good for me, being a child that never struggled with domestic and environment-based chores. Somehow, I ended up in Fisheries, it was not funny initially for me but when I understood Fisheries as a

course, I smartly linked Fisheries to Pre and Post-harvest loss management in order to drive towards food security and to Integrated fish farming to give me access to other agro foods in order to get myself to my dream career fulfillment. Again, as someone that is always curious, pays attention to details and also loves sharing ideas/new found knowledge with my peers, I discovered my researching and teaching abilities and opted for a lecturing career.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise?

BO: I read Fisheries at first degree level but I became aware of my line of interest from my post graduate level. As a hydrologist, my research interest pointed in the area of ecotoxicology, water quality management and hydro biological assessments to determine the health status of aquatic systems and to expose the effect of chemical pollutants on our fish produce. This brought me close to analyzing fish as a food material. I stretched towards monitoring and evaluation of fisheries resources which will help riverine communities and stakeholders know the value of the ecosystem goods and services our aquatic environment can provide and the need for environmental stewardship for sustainable management of these resources. However currently,

I tend to focus more in the area of postharvest management to reduce losses after harvests; and also in integrated agro-fisheries production to aid drive diversity in farm output from ponds to gardens and to the processing table to ensure boost in value addition. This will help extend the shelf-life of our produce and also recycle waste. I also link the hydrobiological analysis of fish species diversity from Nun River to establish their proximate and mineralogical values for quality nutrition and healthy diet development from our indigenous species.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact oriented activities and research.

BO: In 2016 and 2019 respectively, I got TETFund grants to conduct studies on the Nun River. I discovered when I was employed newly into the Polytechnic that the institution was situated right on the Nun river bank, on an island called Ekowe in Bayelsa State. As the pioneer head of the Department of Fisheries Technology, I envisioned the department developing baseline data that the institution and other researchers can refer to for any study on the Nun River ecosystem. This gave rise to the proposal that got the first TETFund grant for the Polytechnic. The findings from the first phase of the research have been published in a technical report (ISBN: 978-978-52453-6-5) and other avenues.

A catalogue of all the fish species identified in the river is to be produced in a couple of months after the completion of the second phase of the project. These species were preserved and used to set up the departmental fish biology laboratory, the first of its kind in the Polytechnic. The second phase is giving rise to a documentary on the proximate and some mineralogical composition of these Nun River species. This will be duly published for public consumption.

PS: Do you face any challenge because of your gender as a female in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

BO: There are challenges indeed at the higher rungs of the career ladder I must confess. As a female academic staff of my institution, I faced a lot of challenges especially, where the females were very few at the top. I was employed to be the pioneer head of my department, I initiated a number of proposals that were stepped down for no good reasons and I could not fight. We were about three females in the academic board. After my AWARD fellowship, my report on the benefits of the fellowship fetched me a directorship position.

I became the first female director in the Polytechnic and the first female director for the Directorate for Academic Planning and Linkages. It was not easy having the male Deans and Heads of Departments who are also your seniors reporting to you and taking directives from you. What I learnt from AWARD training helped me to work with men and with diverse personalities and also keep conflict levels very low. I also became the first female Dean in the Polytechnic.

I worked in diverse committee where I had to lead or follow others. In all these, my technical competency and inter-personal skills I developed as an AWARD fellow did not just help me in facing these challenges squarely, but also helped me influence and make impact on my
colleagues, subordinates and superiors as well.

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

BO: My motivation has always been to reach my peak. I have a target which I clearly stated and mapped out in my AWARD Purpose Road Map (PRM). I get motivated each time I look at that map because my target is to empower others through capacity building, mentoring and driving entrepreneurial innovations. To achieve this, I use my office as a Dean/Director and board member to initiate and influence programmes in the institution. I love seeing people succeed and when I organize programmes and see both staff and students benefit from it, it motivates me to do more.

The best way to tackle challenges is to have success stories but how can you heap up success stories when you have not dared to do? So, the more you succeed in your endeavors the more you render your oppositions powerless and the challenges harmless, and then you will discover that you are like a moving train that cannot be stopped. As a mother, it was not easy running career, job and birthing/nursing babies. AWARD fellowship gave me so much support to glide through.

For instance, my AWARD mentor shared a lot of resources with me that helped me access a number of literatures during my doctorate degree programme while nursing a baby in the comfort of my bedroom during my maternity leave and so much more.

PS: Please share with us your future aspirations.

BO: My future research will focus more on tacking postharvest losses and creating wealth from agro wastes. This I want to achieve going beyond my office to partner with other organizations and using my consultancy expertise. I desire to see where we can handle our agricultural produce as a nation to the level we ‘waste not and want not’. This is why I tend towards agro-fisheries production and agro waste recycling. We need to intentionally connect our research outputs to the farm and to the industry to bridge the gaps and become more problem solving and thus providing solutions and services.

PS: Apart from research and lecturing, what other thing(s) do you love doing?

BO: I have attained the position of a Chief Lecturer in the Polytechnic which is the highest rank in the Polytechnic academic system. I aspire to take my career to another level where I will reach out to people beyond the walls of the institutions. At the topmost rung in my PRM, I stated that I want to own and run a non-governmental organization (NGO) that will focus on capacity building for entrepreneurial and innovative skill development to empower
participants to develop skills and build sustainable businesses that will generate income as well as enable them create jobs to employ others.

I have used my office to train fishermen on integrated farming to enable them reduce fishing pressure on the rivers and also make them better resource stewards. I have also trained women on orange potatoes sac farming and processing them into flour, drying of the citruses such as lime and lemon to preserve them for preparing alkaline water & herbal drinks, also bottling of fresh tomatoes using heating method to preserve them and drying of other sea foods such as periwinkles and bivalves to increase their shelf-life.

These I carried out in collaboration with other colleagues. Again, as an ordained minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), I use my position to organize training annually for youths and women. Also as a children church teacher, I mentor teenagers and coach children in other extra-curricular activities such as singing, storytelling using bible characters and also motivating them to learn playing musical instruments. Don’t forget, I love sharing ideas and skills. I love to see people succeed!

The Publicity team has made another wonderful selection for our monthly spotlight. This month, we are happy to showcase Dr Olufisayo Kolade, Yam Disease Phenotyping Consultant at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Oyo State.

Publicity Secretary (PS): Please tell us a little about your background.

Dr Olufisayo Kolade (OK): I was born in Ilesa, Osun State and I grew up there but I’m a native of Esun, Ayedun Ekiti in Ekiti State. I attended GTTC demonstration school Ilesa for my primary education, St Margaret’s Anglican Girls Grammar School Ilesa and Universities of Ilorin and Ibadan for B.Sc. and Post graduate degrees respectively.

PS: Growing up, did you have any experience that informed your choice of career?

OK: I grew up liking gardening or agriculture because we had a garden with many crops and vegetables and kept some livestock. However, like most students with other dreams, I initially wanted to study pharmacy or pharmacognosy because of my likeness for medicinal plants and the fact that my family had a patent medicine store. Providence had it that I was admitted for botany, but I still wanted to go back to bag another degree in pharmacy or pharmacognosy. The initial love for plants was rekindled while studying botany and the eventual exposure to the impact of agriculture research in ensuring food security. I developed the desire to contribute my own quota to agriculture.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise.

OK: I decided to cling to my area of research during my youth service at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture in 1989/90. I was posted to the Tuber roots and plantain Improvement program of IITA where I worked with a cytogeneticist. She exposed me to the ways that I can be an impactful researcher by providing support to breeders of yam, cassava, and plantain. We carried out ploidy analysis by counting chromosomes, pollen stainability tests, stomatal counts for the hybrids that the breeders developed and we also induced polyploidy using a mutagen.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact oriented activities.

OK: I am a molecular biologist/geneticist/pathologist with a little over 30 years of experience in cytogenetics, tissue culture and pathology. I have contributed to polyploid research and anther culture in cassava, ploidy analysis for yam and plantain, bacterial blight resistance screening in cassava, I have carried out studies on transposable elements in cowpea, molecular diversity in rice and Fusarium species. I am currently working as ‘Yam disease phenotyping specialist’ at IITA and screening for resistant accessions of yam to anthracnose disease and viruses. I focus on developing new tools for high throughput phenotyping of the two diseases. I am interested in digital imaging and hyperspectral phenotyping of fungal and viral diseases of crops.

PS: Do you face any challenge because of your gender as a female at your work place or in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

OK: No, I don’t. IITA is a gender sensitive institute and has given room for women to express themselves as much as possible.

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

OK: Apart from the fact that I have a good family support system, which I am grateful to God for. I have also learnt that once there is willingness to achieve one’s goals there will always be a way. The main idea is to never give up. AWARD has taught us that success does not happen by chance, you must plan and work towards your goals. Role models and mentors have also motivated me. 

PS: Please share with us your future aspiration.

OK: In future, I hope to lead a research institute in Nigeria and continue mentoring younger women by being a worthy role model. I hope to own a ‘waste to wealth’ enterprise or a small scale production company.

PS: Apart from research, what others things do you love doing?

OK: I love gardening, cooking, and singing at my leisure time. I am also an advocate of recycling as well as turning waste into wealth.

The Publicity team is happy to share the inspiring experiences of Ms. Enoobong Udo, a research supervisor at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan, as we celebrate her research and career exploits this month. 

Publicity Secretary (PS): Kindly tell us a few things about your family and educational background.

Ms. Enoobong Udo (MEU):   

My name is Enoobong Udo.  I am a 2015 AWARD fellow. I am from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. I was born in Calabar, Cross River State. I attended Calabar Preparatory School, Calabar and Federal Government Girls’ College, Ikot Obio Itong, Akwa Ibom State for my Primary and  Secondary Education respectively. I have a B. Agric from the University of Uyo and M.Sc. from the Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan. Currently, I am studying for a Ph.D. at University of Ibadan.

My best subject in Secondary school was Economics. I planned was to study Economics at the University, but was not offered admission the year I applied, so I decided to do a pre-degree course in Agricultural Economics. After the pre-degree program, I was offered admission to study Crop Science at the University of Uyo. What was a disappointment at first turned out to be a huge blessing. I fell in love with Agriculture; plants fascinated me. Understanding how to increase food production became priority for me.

PS: At what point did you decide to take up issues surrounding your research interest and area of expertise?

MEU: At the time I was rounding up my first degree, my mother owned a maize farm which I managed; that sparked my interest in maize research.  I lived in the village with my father and extended family as an undergraduate student and understood poverty. The major source of livelihood for the villagers was farming. I thought about how farmers could increase their output and improve the quality of their lives. I chose to do research on crop improvement.

PS: Kindly tell us more about your impact oriented activities and research.

MEU: I have done research on improving the performance of Soybean using organic Phosphorus fertilizer sources (http://agrofor.ues.rs.ba/paper.php?id=81). I have also researched on improving maize for low soil Nitrogen tolerance (https://hdl.handle.net/10568/82627).

The recent awareness of ‘hidden hunger’ and the role of biofortification in mitigating hidden hunger made me decide to work on improving maize for increased micronutrient contents.

My current research is focused on increasing the Pro-Vit A, Fe and Zn concentrations in tropical maize. Deficiencies of micronutrients (hidden hunger) are a major health problem, affecting 2 billion people globally, with a higher proportion being women and children from sub-saharan Africa. Diseases such as chronic diarrhea, retarded physical and mental growth in children, chronic anemia and blindness have been traced to deficiencies in micronutrients. Although maize is a staple crop consumed in various forms in all part of Africa, it is inherently low in micronutrients. I work with the Maize Improvement Team, IITA Ibadan, headed by Dr. Abebe Menkir to genetically fortify maize with micronutrients.

During my AWARD fellowship year, I did a mentorship program in a secondary school in Ibadan which kick-started The Young Farmers Club Initiative in Ibadan. Through working to arousing the interest of young people in Agriculture and creating awareness on more innovation methods of food production and processing, I  won the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young Africans in 2017 and have continued working in many secondary schools across Oyo State, offering mentorship to the students and starting Young Farmers’ clubs.

PS: Do you face any challenge because of your gender in the process of transferring your expertise to proffer solutions for groups you have worked with?

MEU: No. IITA is a very gender-sensitive institution. At the time I was employed in 2015, I was the only female staff on the field. My colleagues respected me. I did not feel out of place though I was the only woman among the men.

PS: Please tell us what has motivated you to keep growing in your field despite the many challenges women face daily including balancing career and family.

MEU: I am motivated to keep growing in my field and become a role model to young women in my family and community. I want to keep progressing and show to young girls around that they can be anything they choose to be if they are determined.I am motivated by the strong support given by my mentors and senior scientists that I work with. Quitting or stopping is not a choice.

PS: Please share with us your future aspirations.

MEU: I aspire to be a leading Scientist in the area of Crop Improvement contributing significantly to food security in Sub-Saharan Africa.  My immediate aspiration is to complete my Ph.D. studies from University of Ibadan.

PS: Apart from research, what other thing(s) do you love doing?MEU: In addition to research, I initiate Young Farmers’ Club in Secondary Schools and serve as mentor to several youth bodies. I am a gospel music artiste, recently released a single: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZ9C5Z7Eejs. I teach Bible Classes in Church and meetings.