The 33rd Inaugural Lecture of Nnamdi Azikiwe University was delivered by a Professor of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Prof. Raphael Okigbo on 27th of October, 2016, at the University Auditorium.
Speaking during his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph E. Ahaneku, FAS who was represented by the DVC (Academic), Prof. Charles Esimone, welcomed all present, especially the professors, both retired and serving professors. He said an Inaugural lecture is an academic ritual which very few individuals are privileged to participate in. He said it is a time to learn a new thing, because the person who is delivering the lecture is speaking from his/her discipline. Finally, he said that since the lecture is centred on health, it was important that everyone listens and takes home something important.
In his lecture, after his citation by the HOD, Political Science, Dr. Frank-Collins Okafor, Prof. Okigbo said that the lecture is aimed at enlightening people on plant health and its importance. The protection of plant health, he said, is a shared responsibility, because the practical goal of plant pathology is to save the produce that could be used for billions of the people of overpopulated globe. He spoke on the role of plant health in national development, which involve: improved food security and human health, improved environment, accelerated agricultural growth, serves as a rewarding professional career and for lifelong learning and world travel. He also gave, in details some of his contribution to plant health and food security; biological control of plant pathogens, antifungal effects of plants extracts, phyto-medicine and plant pesticides, effect of mycotoxins on vended food stuff, Biodegradation and mushroom cultivation amongst many others.
After his lecture, Prof. Okigbo was installed as the 33rd Inaugural Lecturer of UNIZIK by the DVC (Academic) and was applauded by all.
In her vote of thanks, the Chairman, Inaugural Lecture, Prof. Amechi Oyeka said the next inaugural lecturer will be delivered by Prof. Okey Onukwuli of the Faculty of Engineering. She thanked all who found time to come even though many Universities were on vacation. She thanked Prof. Okigbo for presenting the lecture. Finally, she prayed that God would take everyone home safely. Present for the lecture were, some University Council members, Professors, Deans, Lecturers and students amongst others.
