The Ibadan Branch of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) is set to honor Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, Managing Director and CEO of CEOAfrica, in recognition of his exceptional support for research and community engagement programs championed by the organization.
Prince Ilobanafor will be officially decorated and awarded the title of “Friend of OWSD” during a special event scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Oyo Road, Ibadan. The ceremony will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the Director-General of NISER, Professor Antonia Simbine, serving as Chief Host.
OWSD Ibadan, a voluntary association under the auspices of UNESCO, is dedicated to fostering collaboration among women scientists and researchers in universities and allied institutions. The branch actively promotes research that delivers tangible societal benefits, while advancing gender equity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and related fields including the social sciences and arts.
The Ibadan chapter draws its membership from leading research and academic institutions such as the University of Ibadan, The Polytechnic Ibadan, National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), National Agricultural Research and Technology Agencies (NAGGRAB), Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), NISER, and the Federal College of Health and Animal Production Technology (FCHAPT).
Prince Ilobanafor’s unwavering commitment to the advancement of research and capacity-building in Nigeria has made him a powerful ally in the fight for gender inclusivity in scientific spaces. OWSD Ibadan, in its official communication, praised his contributions, stating: “Your unforgettable efforts have inspired early, mid, and advanced career researchers, making you a role model for both female and male students in higher education.”
The celebration will begin with a research workshop at 10:00 a.m., followed by the award presentation ceremony at 11:00 a.m. In addition to Prince Ilobanafor, other distinguished personalities who have supported the organization’s mission will also be recognized.
This recognition underscores OWSD Ibadan’s ongoing efforts to build a future where women in science are fully empowered and supported. The branch remains steadfast in its mission to provide a dynamic platform for researchers across disciplines to thrive, collaborate, and make impactful contributions to society.