​OAUSTECH Confirms Appointment of Johnson Adedayo Ogunjobi as Professor: A Journey of Scholarship, Leadership and Environmental Stewardship

The Governing Council of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State, has confirmed the appointment of Dr. Johnson Adedayo Ogunjobi as a Professor of Wildlife Ecology, Management and Conservation, with effect from October 1, 2025.

​The appointment was confirmed at the meeting of the Governing Council held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. This marks a significant milestone in the distinguished academic career of one of Nigeria’s leading scholars in wildlife management, environmental conservation, and sustainable natural resource development.

​Professor Ogunjobi’s elevation is a testament to years of outstanding scholarship, impactful research, dedicated teaching, professional leadership, and an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. Over the years, he has built an enviable reputation as a researcher whose work actively bridges science, conservation, community development, and sustainable livelihoods.

​As a highly respected wildlife ecologist, Professor Ogunjobi’s research interests cut across both in situ (on-site) and ex situ (off-site) conservation, with extensive field studies spanning the northern and southern regions of Nigeria. His scholarly investigations have taken him to some of Nigeria’s most important protected areas, including Cross River National Park in Cross River State, Kainji Lake National Park in Niger State, and Kamuku National Park in Kaduna State, where he conducted significant studies on biodiversity conservation, wildlife ecology, and habitat management.

​His extensive body of research has contributed immensely to the understanding of wildlife conservation challenges in Nigeria while providing practical solutions for sustainable ecosystem management. His numerous publications have directly addressed critical issues such as biodiversity conservation, land use change, wildlife management, environmental sustainability, ecotourism development, and species conservation.

​Furthermore, several of his scholarly contributions align directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His work specifically champions SDG 1 (No Poverty) through sustainable wildlife farming initiatives, SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through alternative animal protein production, SDG 13 (Climate Action) through ecosystem conservation research, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through biodiversity protection, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaborative conservation programmes involving local communities, government agencies, and international organisations.

One of Professor Ogunjobi’s most notable contributions to national development is his pioneering role in advancing wildlife farming techniques in Nigeria, particularly in the areas of grasscutter and snail farming. Widely regarded as one of the leading experts behind practical approaches to wildlife domestication and sustainable farming systems, his work has opened new economic opportunities for rural households and small-scale entrepreneurs across the country.

​Through capacity-building initiatives and extension programmes, he has trained more than 500 farmers in grasscutter and snail farming across Kogi, Oyo, and Ogun States. These efforts have directly promoted food security, employment generation, and sustainable income opportunities for many vulnerable households.

​His expertise also earned him national recognition when he served as a Subject Specialist for the training of Support Zone Communities around Kainji Lake National Park in Niger State. This 2009 initiative, sponsored by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), significantly strengthened community participation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management.

​Born on February 3, 1972, Professor Ogunjobi’s academic journey began from humble foundations before progressing through the Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan. He later attended the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (now the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta), where he successfully obtained his Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Wildlife Management.

​Professor Ogunjobi’s academic career reflects consistency, excellence, and dedication. He began his teaching profession at the Federal College of Wildlife Management, New Bussa, Niger State, in 2005, where he helped nurture a new generation of wildlife professionals. In 2013, he briefly served at the Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, before joining Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, where he steadily rose through the academic ranks.

​Beyond his academic accomplishments, Professor Ogunjobi has distinguished himself as a transformational administrator and institutional builder. At OAUSTECH, he served as Acting Head of the Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Environmental Management between 2021 and 2024, providing leadership that strengthened the department’s academic standing and accreditation profile. He also served as Acting Dean of the School of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, among several other responsibilities.

​His leadership in environmental advocacy is further reflected in impactful grassroots initiatives. These include the establishment of the Southern Ondo Bird Club, the Greener School Project across several schools in Nigeria, donations of conservation materials to institutions, and the inauguration of Sea Turtle Champions in Ondo State—all of which have strengthened environmental awareness among future generations.

​His scholarly reputation extends well beyond the classroom. He has secured both local and international research grants, including support from the renowned Rufford Small Grants Foundation in the United Kingdom. He also received a fully sponsored international travel grant from the Department for International Development (DFID), United Kingdom, to present scientific findings during the Commonwealth Forestry Conference in Edinburgh, Scotland.

​Prof. Ogunjobi maintains active membership in several professional bodies, including the Forestry Association of Nigeria, Wildlife Society of Nigeria, Ecological Society of Nigeria,决 Zoological Society of Nigeria, Nigerian Environmental Study and Action Team, and the Commonwealth Forestry Association. As Chairman of the Initiative for Sustainable Agriculture and Ecological Restoration (INSAER), he continues to champion programmes that promote environmental sustainability.

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​Colleagues and stakeholders in the environmental and academic sectors have described this elevation as a well-deserved recognition of a scholar whose work consistently combines scientific excellence with practical societal impact. They describe him as a meticulous administrator, a consensus builder, and a leader whose commitment to excellence continues to inspire both staff and students.

​The appointment also highlights OAUSTECH’s growing profile as a university for cutting-edge research. In confirming this role, OAUSTECH has elevated a scholar, a mentor, an environmental steward, and a leader whose contributions will continue to resonate within and beyond the walls of the university for years to come.

​Professor Johnson Ogunjobi is also a valued member of the ValidViewNetwork Media Platform, where his intellectual contributions and commitment to national development continue to enrich public discourse. As he assumes his new academic status, expectations remain high that Professor Ogunjobi will continue to expand the frontiers of wildlife conservation research, mentor emerging scholars, and contribute innovative solutions to environmental challenges confronting Nigeria and the African continent.