By Mahdi Waziri Isa
Professor Sola Adeyanju, a renowned Nigerian scholar and researcher, was recently honored with a surprise birthday celebration by friends and staff of NIPSS-OSKASOGS, where he serves as the Pioneer Director. The event also marked his one-year anniversary in office.
Professor Adeyanju who is the Head of Culture, Language and Media at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, has over 256 publications in local and international journals and has worked with organizations like UNDP, UNICEF, and BBC World Service.
He obtained his First Class Honours Degree in Mass Communication from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in 1998, and later earned his Master’s degree in Political Science and PhD in Mass Communication from the University of Ibadan in 2010.
Adeyanju’s research interests focus on strategic communication programme development, public policy analysis, research, capacity building, and gender mainstreaming. He has over 21 years of experience working with local, national, and international organizations.
The surprise birthday event was attended by notable guests, including Brig General GU Nwanba, mni, the Brigade Commander, 35 Artillery, Alabama, Abeokuta, who was the Special Guest of Honour. Prof Dele Odunlami, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, OOU, delivered the Keynote Lecture.
Other dignitaries present included Profs Anthony Kola-Olusanya and Temitope Omotayo. Adeyanju expressed gratitude to the organizers, Mrs Olayemi Alaka, Dr Rasaq Olabomi, management staff, and all other staff of NIPSS-OSKASOGS.
Adeyanju’s contributions to the field of mass communication started during his days as a lecturer in Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, and his work has been recognized by his peers.
The event was a testament to Adeyanju’s dedication and service to NIPSS-OSKASOGS and the academic community. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the institute’s research direction.
Adeyanju’s appointment as Pioneer Director of NIPSS-OSKASOGS marked a significant milestone in his career, and his achievements continue to inspire his colleagues and students.