Kwara State University’s Dr AbdulWaheed Musa Named Researcher of the Year 2024

Dr AbdulWaheed Musa, a distinguished academic from Kwara State University, has been crowned Researcher of the Year 2024, an accolade that underscores his transformative contributions to wireless communication, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy. As the Head of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Founding Director of both the Center for Advanced Materials and Sustainable Energy (CAMS) and the Center for Technological Research and Development (CTRD), Dr Musa’s career is a testament to relentless innovation and intellectual rigor. With more than 70 scholarly publications to his name and a portfolio of research funded by esteemed organisations such as the Royal Academy of Engineering (UK), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), his work has earned him recognition not only in Nigeria but across the global academic and technological landscape.

A Visionary Bridging Academia and National Policy

Dr Musa’s influence extends beyond the confines of academia into the corridors of national policymaking. In 2024, he played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS), a comprehensive framework spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. This initiative aims to position Nigeria as a continental leader in AI-driven solutions, fostering economic growth and addressing critical societal challenges. His expertise in wireless communication and renewable energy has further amplified his impact, as these fields are increasingly seen as cornerstones of sustainable development in a rapidly digitising world.

Beyond his policy contributions, Dr Musa’s participation in high-profile international events such as ITU Telecom World and the World Economic Forum has solidified his reputation as a global thought leader. His ability to represent Nigeria on such platforms not only highlights the nation’s growing intellectual capital but also signals its readiness to engage with cutting-edge technological advancements on the world stage.

A Broader Context: Celebrating Nigerian Excellence

Dr Musa’s achievements arrive alongside other inspiring stories of Nigerian excellence in STEM fields. Notably, Tony Okeke, a Nigerian student, has recently been recognised by the Health and Environmental Sciences Institute (HESI) for his groundbreaking work in biomedical engineering and genetic toxicology. These accolades reflect a broader narrative of Nigeria’s emergence as a hub of scientific and technological innovation, driven by the efforts of individuals who defy resource constraints and institutional challenges to make significant contributions to global knowledge.

The juxtaposition of Dr Musa’s work in AI and renewable energy with Okeke’s strides in biomedical engineering paints a portrait of a nation whose intellectual potential is as diverse as it is promising. While Dr Musa’s research addresses the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions and advanced communication systems, Okeke’s focus on health sciences highlights the interconnectedness of human and environmental well-being. Together, their stories underscore the importance of fostering a multidisciplinary approach to innovation, one that bridges the gap between technological advancement and societal benefit.

Reflection: The Ripple Effect of Recognition

The recognition of figures like Dr AbdulWaheed Musa and Tony Okeke serves as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of Nigerian scholars and innovators. It challenges the pervasive narrative of brain drain by showcasing the impact that homegrown talent can achieve when given the right platforms and support. Moreover, it underscores the critical role of funding and institutional backing in enabling groundbreaking research, as evidenced by the support Dr Musa has received from both local and international organisations.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges such as energy scarcity, digital inequality, and public health crises, the contributions of individuals like Dr Musa offer a glimpse of what is possible when expertise meets opportunity. His work not only advances the frontiers of knowledge but also lays the groundwork for practical solutions to some of the nation’s most pressing issues. In celebrating his achievements, we are reminded that the path to progress is paved by those who dare to imagine a better future—and who possess the skills and determination to bring it to life.