By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration at the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, has stated that social scientists are leaders and must therefore come together to proffer solutions to the current national problems.
He spoke while receiving on a courtesy visit leaders of the various Social Sciences associations in Nigeria who have convened in Ibadan for the First Annual Ibadan International Social Sciences Conference (AIISSC)
Professor Olapegba, who spoke on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, recalled the contributions of such social scientists as late Professor Akin Mabogunje and late Professor Ojetunji Aboyade to the Nigerian economy and said it was time social scientists proffered solutions to the problems confronting Nigeria.
He, however, cautioned that the solutions must be homegrown, noting that while most of the problems presently facing Nigeria are global, solutions should not be borrowed from elsewhere.
Professor Olapegba also charged social scientists to rejig the Social Sciences Academy of Nigeria for social scientists to occupy a pride of place among professionals in Nigeria.
The Dean of the Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Professor E. E. Nwokocha said Nigerian social scientists from all over the world are expected at the conference to “brainstorm and come up with ideas and remedies to help Nigeria out of the woods”
The theme of the 4-day conference is “Social Science, Contemporary Social Issues and the Actualization of Sustainable Development .” It is being attended by participants from across the globe.
