Crescent University, Abeokuta, has recorded a major milestone in its academic history with the successful hosting of its maiden inaugural lecture, delivered by Professor Rasaki Olufemi Kareem, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Resource and Development Economics.
The lecture, titled “Resource Efficiency vs. Economic Development: Whither Nigeria?”, was held at the Bola Ajibola Auditorium and attracted members of the university community, government officials, academics, students, alumni and invited guests. The event marked the beginning of the university’s inaugural lecture series and underscored Crescent University’s commitment to academic excellence, research and national development.
Speaking during the lecture, Professor Kareem said Nigeria’s slow economic development is not due to a lack of natural or human resources but to the inefficient management of available resources. He noted that the country is richly endowed with crude oil, natural gas, fertile agricultural land, solid minerals and a large youthful population capable of driving sustainable economic growth.
According to him, corruption, poor governance, policy inconsistency, political instability and overdependence on crude oil have prevented the country from achieving its full economic potential. He urged governments at all levels to promote transparency, accountability and efficient resource management while investing more in agriculture, manufacturing, education, technology and innovation.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibraheem Gbajabiamila, described the event as a historic achievement for the institution and praised Professor Kareem for his contributions to scholarship and university administration. He said the inaugural lecture reflected Crescent University’s commitment to producing research that addresses national challenges.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prince Ma’ruf Adesegun Ajibola (SAN), congratulated the inaugural lecturer and commended the university for reaching another important milestone in its academic development.
Students and guests at the event described the lecture as insightful and timely, saying it provided practical recommendations for addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges through better management of available resources.
The maiden inaugural lecture is expected to strengthen Crescent University’s tradition of research and intellectual engagement while encouraging meaningful discussions on issues affecting national development.
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