The Department of Physics, University of Lagos, had the rare privilege of hosting Africa’s first female professor of Physics , Prof. Deborah Ajakaiye, on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
An octogenarian and trailblazer in the field, Prof. Ajakaiye visited the department to interact with faculty and students, sharing words of encouragement and wisdom drawn from her illustrious career.
During her visit, she recounted her journey as an academic, emphasizing her commitment to solving real problems for Nigeria through physics. “That commitment has paid off,” she reflected, urging students to embrace the discipline with dedication.
“You’ve chosen the right subject. You’re in the right faculty,” she told them. “It’ll take you places in life if you make the best use of the opportunity it offers—to become better versions of yourselves and to be of service to others.”
She further encouraged them to stay humble and open to continuous learning, affirming that “God has planted you here for a purpose.”
Addressing faculty members, she stressed the importance of engagement with industry players who rely on their expertise.
“Do a good job of research and teaching, put yourself out there in the faces of companies who will support your work and the Department with donations of critical equipment. It is in their enlightened self-interest, and it will be a win-win for both of you,” she advised.
The event was attended by the Dean of Science, Prof. Taiwo Asekun, and the Head of the Department of Physics, Prof. O. I. Olusola.
Prof. Asekun expressed deep gratitude for Prof. Ajakaiye’s visit, describing it as a moment of immense inspiration for the next generation of physicists. She also extended special appreciation to Mr. Danladi Verheijen, Prof. Ajakaiye’s son, for facilitating the historic visit.
As she departed, Prof. Ajakaiye left behind more than just word. She left a renewed sense of purpose among the students and faculty of UNILAG Physics, reminding them that knowledge, when applied with vision and determination, has the power to transform both individuals and nations.
Report: Isaiah Kumuyi
Photograph: Michael Joshua
One Response
Quite a memorable occasion indeed and this set are more than lucky to have mama Prof in good health and sound mind,🙏 they put to practice all they heard from mama congrats guys.