Prof. Adesola Ajayi
Honorary Distinguished Fellow of the Global Association for Research and Innovation (Hon. FeGARI)Current Position:
Professor of Agricultural Science & Development
Nigeria
Year of Admission: 2026. Status: Active
Professional Overview
Prof. Adesola Ajayi is a globally recognized agricultural scientist and development expert with over three decades of experience spanning research, higher education, and international development. He currently serves as Vice-Chancellor of First Technical University Ibadan. His work focuses on seed systems, plant genetic resources, climate-resilient agriculture, and policy frameworks that advance food security and sustainable agricultural systems across Africa and beyond.
Areas of Expertise
Leadership & Global Engagement
Prof. Ajayi has held several high-level academic and governance positions, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Pioneer) and Director of Academic Planning and Partnerships at First Technical University, Ibadan, as well as Chairman of the Governing Council of The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki. Earlier in his career at Obafemi Awolowo University, he served in multiple leadership roles, including University Orator, Acting Head of Department, Director of the Teaching and Research Farm, and member of key institutional committees. He has collaborated with and advised leading international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization, United Nations Development Programme, United States Agency for International Development, Catholic Relief Services, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), and CORAF/WECARD. His contributions have informed continental and international policy frameworks on seed systems, plant variety protection, and agricultural development.
Contributions & Impact
His work has significantly influenced agricultural research systems, policy development, and capacity building across multiple African countries. Through research leadership and international collaboration, he has strengthened innovation ecosystems, improved seed sector performance, and supported sustainable food systems at scale.
Honors & Recognition
Global Influence
Prof. Ajayi continues to shape agricultural research, policy, and capacity development through international engagement, mentorship, and thought leadership. His career reflects sustained contributions to advancing agricultural innovation, institutional leadership, and global development practice.
Prof. Adesola Ajayi is a globally recognized agricultural scientist and development expert with over three decades of experience spanning research, higher education, and international development. He currently serves as Vice-Chancellor of First Technical University Ibadan. His work focuses on seed systems, plant genetic resources, climate-resilient agriculture, and policy frameworks that advance food security and sustainable agricultural systems across Africa and beyond.
Areas of Expertise
- Seed systems and agricultural innovation
- Plant genetic resources (PGRFA)
- Climate change and agricultural sustainability
- Agricultural policy and value chain development
Leadership & Global Engagement
Prof. Ajayi has held several high-level academic and governance positions, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Pioneer) and Director of Academic Planning and Partnerships at First Technical University, Ibadan, as well as Chairman of the Governing Council of The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki. Earlier in his career at Obafemi Awolowo University, he served in multiple leadership roles, including University Orator, Acting Head of Department, Director of the Teaching and Research Farm, and member of key institutional committees. He has collaborated with and advised leading international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization, United Nations Development Programme, United States Agency for International Development, Catholic Relief Services, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), and CORAF/WECARD. His contributions have informed continental and international policy frameworks on seed systems, plant variety protection, and agricultural development.
Contributions & Impact
His work has significantly influenced agricultural research systems, policy development, and capacity building across multiple African countries. Through research leadership and international collaboration, he has strengthened innovation ecosystems, improved seed sector performance, and supported sustainable food systems at scale.
Honors & Recognition
- Award of Outstanding Friend of Ibadan (OFI) by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII)
- CIRCLE Champion Award (2021)
- DAAD Scholar and DAAD Re-invitation Fellow, Germany
- Vavilov-Frankel Fellowship (IPGRI)
- Professor Werner Schulze Fellowship, Germany
- Dr. Sunday Aribisala Fellowship (PhD distinction)
- Multiple academic excellence awards, including best graduating student honors at Obafemi Awolowo University
- Ph.D. (Dr.sc. agr.), Kiel University
Global Influence
Prof. Ajayi continues to shape agricultural research, policy, and capacity development through international engagement, mentorship, and thought leadership. His career reflects sustained contributions to advancing agricultural innovation, institutional leadership, and global development practice.