Nigerian Archaeologist Wins $300,000 Dan David Prize for Proving Glass Bead Production Originated in Ile-Ife

By Olatunji Adesina | September 25, 2025

Nigerian archaeologist Dr. Abidemi Babatunde Babalola was awarded the 2025 Dan David Prize and a $300,000 cash prize for his groundbreaking research proving that glass bead production originated in Africa, precisely in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. This discovery challenges long-held European assumptions that sophisticated glassmaking could not have African roots.

Dr. Babalola, a Rice University alumnus with advanced degrees in anthropology and African archaeology, led excavations at the Igbo Olokun site in Ile-Ife, uncovering ancient glass beads and manufacturing materials dating between the 11th and 15th centuries. His research demonstrated that this highly skilled glassmaking industry developed independently in West Africa, distinct from glassmaking traditions elsewhere.

The findings reshape our understanding of early African societies, establishing them as key innovators within early global trade networks. Dr. Babalola’s work underscores the technological sophistication of Yoruba civilization and repositions West Africa as a pioneering center of glass production.

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Currently serving as lead archaeologist for the Museum of West African Art archaeology project in Benin City, Nigeria, Dr. Babalola continues to advance knowledge about Africa’s rich cultural heritage through his collaboration with the British Museum.

This prestigious award grants Dr. Babalola global recognition for his role in rewriting history and affirming Africa’s contributions to ancient industrial technologies.