UI don advocates development in UHR

A professor of Petroleum Geology/Environmental Geology from the Department of Geology, Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan, Olugbenga Ajayi Ehinola, on Thursday, called for a constant review of the curricula used in teaching and training geoscience experts as a way of meeting the changing needs and gaps already created in the Unconventional Hydrocarbon Resources (UHR) production practices.

He made that call at the Faculty of Science, Lake Lecture Theatre, University of Ibadan, while delivering his inaugural lecture entitled ‘On the search of Unconventional Hydrocarbon Resources of Nigeria Basis’.

Prof Ehinola's lecture was the tenth in the history of his department and the 467th in the university’s inaugural lecture series.

The lecture which addressed the issues surrounding Unconventional Hydrocarbon Resources (UHR) in Nigeria Basins and the need for their sustainable development and utilization for the benefit of humanity and posterity also highlighted the various challenges facing the development of UHR in the country while outlining the possible strategies to employ in dealing with the problems.

Ehinola recommended various ways through which the problem can be resolved to include creation of Unconventional Hydrocarbon Resources Centres in all the geopolitical zones, with headquarters in UI; engagement of Responsible Scientific Research and Technological innovations with dissemination of proven technologies; implementation of well-planned policies; provision of alternative resource utilization; capacity building in UHR sub-sector to enhance efficiency of hydrocarbon production; strengthening of partnerships, collaboration and programmes coordination at local, regional and global levels; enforcement of best practices in environmental management through the Ministry of Environment; and to prioritize private sector participation and development for accelerated UHR production.

He was optimistic that the recommendations will ensure growth and sustainability of Unconventional Hydrocarbon Resources production as he encouraged institutions and practitioners to adopt the strategies for ecological, economic and social benefits.

The inaugural lecturer concluded by advising that people should rather love and make use of the available resources to better the society and the nation in general than use people and love things, saying "people are made to be loved and things are made to be used. There is chaos in the world because people are used and things are loved".

Professor Ehinola, a vibrant researcher, lecturer and University administrator has made significant contributions to community development at national, regional and global levels.