NigeriaLics Appoints UNILORIN Scholar, Prof. Abdulkarim Oloyede, as Secretary-General

The Nigerian Network for Economics of Learning, Innovation, and Competence Building Systems (NigeriaLics) has nominated Professor Abdulkarim Oloyede, Director of the Centre for Research Development and In-House Training (CREDIT) at the University of Ilorin, as its new Secretary-General. His nomination marks another significant milestone for Nigeria’s innovation and research community, reinforcing the nation’s growing presence in global development scholarship. Akahi News gathered that the appointment was formally communicated through a letter dated 4 October 2025.

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A Recognition Built on Excellence and Commitment

According to details obtained by Akahi News, the announcement was made by the President of the NigeriaLics Scientific Board, Dr Maruf Sanni, who explained that Professor Oloyede emerged as the preferred candidate after a rigorous screening of applications and academic portfolios submitted by shortlisted scholars.

In the letter sighted by newsmen, Dr Sanni noted that the committee found the UNILORIN scholar’s credentials, professional track record, and longstanding commitment to the values of both NigeriaLics and its continental body, AfricaLics, exceptionally outstanding.

“Your credentials, professional achievements, and demonstrated commitment to the values and objectives of NigeriaLics and AfricaLics stood out prominently,” the letter read. Dr Sanni further emphasised that the Board was confident that Professor Oloyede’s leadership would help deepen collaborative research, nurture emerging scholars, and support innovation-driven development within and beyond Nigeria.

This development, Akahi News understands, aligns with the organisation’s long-term mandate of strengthening Nigeria’s human capital base in areas cutting across science, technology, innovation, and development studies.

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What NigeriaLics Represents in Africa’s Innovation Landscape

NigeriaLics, the Nigerian hub of the African Network for Economics of Learning, Innovation, and Competence Building Systems (AfricaLics), serves as a convergence point for researchers, innovators, policymakers, and industry practitioners working to transform the continent’s innovation ecosystem.

The platform promotes high-quality research, capacity building, knowledge exchange, and evidence-based policy dialogue. Analysts who spoke with journalists described NigeriaLics as an essential driver of Africa’s push toward a knowledge-based economy, adding that the organisation has consistently supported young scholars through mentorship, conferences, workshops, and research partnerships.

Akahi News learnt that one of NigeriaLics’ strategic goals is to build a strong pipeline of Nigerian scholars equipped with the knowledge and skills to tackle developmental challenges through innovation, science, and technology. The network also plays a vital role in shaping discourse around national competitiveness, innovation systems, and socio-economic development.

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A Scholar with Depth, Impact, and Global Engagement

Professor Abdulkarim Oloyede is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading academics in Telecommunications, Wireless Communications, and Internet Governance. With more than a decade of experience spanning academia and industry, his expertise has contributed to major regional and international conversations on digital inclusion, broadband access, and communication policy.

In 2021, the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) appointed him as a Consultant to the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC), a move widely celebrated within the academic community. Akahi News gathered that this appointment further strengthened his profile as a leading voice in Africa’s digital transformation efforts.

Colleagues and observers believe his new role as NigeriaLics Secretary-General will create fresh opportunities for collaborative research, policy influence, and the internationalisation of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. There are strong expectations that the University of Ilorin community will benefit immensely from his expanded continental engagement.

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Strengthening Nigeria’s Future Through Innovation Leadership

Journalists report that the nomination comes at a time when Nigeria is intensifying efforts to build a sustainable and knowledge-driven economy. Experts say that individuals like Professor Oloyede—whose work intersects research, technology, policy, and capacity building—are essential to advancing Nigeria’s growth trajectory.

Akahi News gathered that NigeriaLics plans to scale its outreach to young scholars nationwide, promoting research that addresses real-world developmental challenges while positioning Nigeria as a leading authority in innovation studies across Africa.

Stakeholders have expressed optimism that the new Secretary-General will champion research collaborations between Nigerian universities, international partners, government agencies, and private-sector institutions, creating a more vibrant and inclusive innovation landscape.

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Professor Abdulkarim Oloyede’s appointment as Secretary-General of NigeriaLics is more than an academic milestone; it symbolises a renewed confidence in Nigeria’s intellectual resources and the country’s potential to shape Africa’s innovation future. With his depth of experience, international exposure, and commitment to capacity building, many analysts believe the network is set for accelerated growth and greater continental relevance.

As NigeriaLics continues to nurture Nigeria’s next generation of scholars, Akahi News will keep monitoring emerging developments, collaborations, and policy impacts arising from this new leadership chapter.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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