In a historic collaboration, Supply Chain Africa, in partnership with Adebayo Adeleke LLC, is embarking on the establishment of a groundbreaking research and innovation centre at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. Valued at five billion naira ($4.5 million), this project aims to revolutionize supply chain research and development, not only in Nigeria, but across the entire African continent.
Adebayo Adeleke, the visionary driving force behind this initiative, has expressed an unwavering commitment to advancing supply chain solutions within Africa. He underscores the importance of research and innovation in tackling complex challenges, emphasizing the multidisciplinary nature of the centre, which integrates fields such as engineering, robotics, and art.
“LAUTECH is a “premier research university in Nigeria,” he said
”You can’t really talk about state universities or research universities in Nigeria without talking about Ladoke Akintola University. So, it is important to align with success.
“This is going to be the first supply chain research and innovation centre in Nigeria and second in Africa, so, we intend to kind of establish that. And more importantly is the fact that I have done researches within the space of research chain in the continent and there is a need to have facility that is quite focused on that, the supply chain is life.”
The proposed research centre has received enthusiastic support from LAUTECH’s faculty and management, who recognize its potential to enhance research capabilities, attract international collaboration, and elevate the university’s academic standing.
This collaboration between Supply Chain Africa, Adebayo Adeleke LLC, and LAUTECH reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and collaboration between industry and academia. As construction commences, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the centre’s profound impact on supply chain education, research, and industry practices throughout Africa.
The proposed centre will serve as a platform for research and solution development, drawing upon expertise from various fields to address pressing challenges. Mr. Adeleke stresses the importance of showcasing Africa’s capacity for research and problem-solving on a global scale.
LAUTECH’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Rasaq Olatunde ROM Kalilu added: “We are trying to reposition the university so as to make positive impact at the global level. So, this supply chain management laboratory will afford the university to have staff and students exchange programmes with other organizations. That is the significance of the gesture by Mr. Adebayo Adeleke.
“This will enrich the knowledge and ideas as well as technology of our students and staff to collaborate with their peers outside the shores of Nigeria, so also, we will be able to make impact with activities of other researchers and students who will be collaborating with us.”
The project has received overwhelming support from various stakeholders, including faculty members and industry experts, who recognize its transformative potential. Professor Remi Aworemi, Head of the Department of Transport Management, describes the centre as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration, bridging gaps in research and providing opportunities for international exchange.
Construction of the centre, led by SpaceCube Development Ltd, marks a significant milestone in advancing research and innovation in Africa. The project reflects a collective commitment to solving complex supply chain challenges and building a brighter future for the continent.
As the project progresses, stakeholders remain optimistic about its potential to drive innovation, empower future generations, and position Africa as a leader in supply chain research and development.
