Olanike Kudirat Adeyemo

“There is the need to explore the field more and sponsor research on epidemiological study. We need to know why more people are dying of renal failure, liver cancer and kidney problems when they do not indulge in attitude or have conditions that expose them to the diseases.”

“No country will help you to develop your own country. If you are getting a research grant, it must be one that favours the country funding it. For us to solve our environmental and health issues, research must be funded by Nigeria. Most of the funds we get are from outside the country but they determine what they want you to research on. They are tied to conditions. Most of them will not solve the basic needs of Nigeria. Only Nigerians can help Nigeria achieve greater development.”

““Science happened to me, but passion is what has kept my love for science burning”.”

“Women are also confronted with challenges common to all researchers. These include poor infrastructure, access to cutting-edge research tools and funding to carry out research. Additionally, early career female researchers don’t have many female role models for motivation and mentorship.”

“Women in science do seem to find it difficult to be recognised and achieve academic excellence. This is particularly true in sub-Saharan Africa, due to cultural limitations and bias. Within the Nigerian environment marriage, parenthood and other gender-assigned roles – such as primary caregivers for the elderly – take precedence over career and education.”