Jare Olukotun
The Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) reached a defining milestone on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as it hosted the university community to its first-ever Inaugural Lecture, four years after its establishment. The event symbolised the institution’s growing reputation as a University of Excellence.
Opening the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya. underscored the importance of inaugural lectures, describing the initiative as a platform where professors justify their chairs by showcasing impact, research, and contributions to shaping lives. He emphasised that such lectures are not personal victories but institutional responsibilities.
The maiden lecture, titled “Lessons from Ants: Odyssey of an Insect Hunter”, was delivered by Prof. Abiodun Denloye, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics).
The guest speaker expressed excitement at being the first to set the standard, noting that the lecture would serve as a benchmark for future scholars at LASUSTECH.
Prof. Denloye challenged conventional perceptions of insects, revealing their immense value in health, food security, economy, and even forensic science. He explained how insects contribute to the circular and blue economy, serve medicinal purposes, and aid justice by helping estimate time of death in crime investigations.
The Deputy VC reinforced the relevance of the topic to human health, citing examples such as mosquitoes transmitting yellow fever, and stressing the importance of research in controlling harmful species while harnessing beneficial ones. He concluded with a powerful reminder: “The best control of the land is self-control.”
Prof. Denloye further called for government support to create awareness about both harmful and beneficial insects. He urged investment in cultivating useful species, opening new opportunities for entrepreneurship, food security, and national growth.
