A Professor of Social Gerontology, Gender and Development Studies, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences at the Lagos State University, LASU, Professor Olanrewaju Emmanuel Ajiboye is set to deliver the 121st inaugural lecture of the University at its Ojo campus next week Tuesday April 21st.
Professor Ajiboye’s lecture, titled “That We May Age Gracefully: A Social Gerontologist’s X-ray of Later Life,” represents the culmination of years of dedicated scholarship, advocacy, and field engagement on issues of ageing, dignity, gender, and social development.”
As part of the long-standing academic tradition of inaugural lectures, this event marks a significant milestone in the intellectual journey of a scholar whose voice has consistently contributed to national and global discussions on gerontology and development.
It is both a celebration of personal achievement and a moment of collective reflection on the evolving social responsibilities toward older persons in contemporary society.
In a chat with our Correspondent Yemisi Dada, Professor Ajiboye, said the lecture promises to illuminate the realities of later life through a sociological lens, raising critical conversations about how societies can create supportive systems that enable older adults to live with dignity, purpose, and inclusion.
The University Don who referred to the aged as recycling teenagers urged individuals, families, Society and the government among other stakeholders to support those who have used their youthful age to serve the nation to avoid loneliness in old age.
“All my concern is to create an enabling environment, a society for all ages, irrespective of our gender and divide. I live as human.
It’s expected to live a befitting life.
The life worthy of others to emulate. And that’s why I have chosen that word graceful aging.
You know, when you eat gracefully, it means that you are happy.
And once you are happy, then you prolong your longevity” Prof emphasized.
The LASU 121st inaugural lecture under the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, will hold next week Tuesday at two o’clock in the afternoon at the Buba Maruwa auditorium.
Congratulating Professor Ajiboye on the feat, National President Association of Early Childhood and Basic Education Instructors in Nigeria, Dr Simeon Fowowe, said the lecture will highlight ageing, dignity and social responsibility beyond academia with lasting impact on knowledge and inclusion.
“Professor Ajiboye is arugged and highly determined academic, a comrade who has successfully navigated the many bends and hurdles of scholarly life, and a man of generous spirit, Professor Ajiboye embodies resilience, clarity of purpose, and humanity.
Over the years, he has built a reputation as a goal-driven and exceptionally productive scholar whose work cuts across research, mentorship, administration, and community engagement” Fowowe said
His contributions continue to inspire colleagues, students, and the wider society, reflecting a career defined not only by intellectual depth but also by practical relevance and social commitment” he stated
Written by Yemisi Dada