Academics Scholars under the auspices of the National Association of Mathematical Physics (NAMP) on 6th – 9th November 2018, converged on Landmark University for the Association’s 29th Annual Colloquium/Congress to brainstorm on finding solution to agricultural challenges and insecurity through Mathematical Physics. 

The Vice- Chancellor Landmark University, Professor Adeniyi Olayanju who graced the opening ceremony of the annual congress resonated on the theme “Mathematical Physics: An Important Tool towards Agrarian Revolution, Security and Development”, as he applauds the foresight of the organizers and the National Working Committee in bringing up such a thought provoking, action driving and workable theme in such a time in the Nation. Professor Olayanju in his welcome remarks reiterated the importance of mathematical physics to mechanized agriculture saying for the Country to make head way economically, emphasis needs to be placed on agriculture. 

Science he added cannot be removed from mechanized agriculture if it must thrive, they are related and interwoven. He made it known that with the committed vision of Landmark University in spearheading the agrarian revolution, in no distant time food insecurity would be a thing of the past. The VC urged other professional Associations to emulate NAMP in making concerted efforts to improve agriculture mechanization in the country.   Professor Olayanju used the medium to laud Landmark University’s members of the association as a group of highly resourceful, brilliant and seasoned Faculty whose valuable contribution is acknowledged.

Also at the opening ceremony, the Keynote Speaker who is the Vice-Chancellor Bells University Ota, Professor Jeremiah Ojediran, represented by the Acting Dean of Student Affairs of the School, Dr. Daramola Abiodun further reiterated the relevance of the theme of the congress to the Nigerian context describing it as apposite and well thought out. Daramola revealed that the application of Mathematics and Physics has “led to the consequent development of mechanical devices for planting, harvesting and processing of various food crops. These devices have significantly increased efficiency and farm-worker productivity and farming much less labour-intensive. The development encouraged large scale production and improved quality of farm produce”. 

He also accentuate the significant contributions of mathematical models, precision agricultural mapping and soil physics to Agriculture, “With the benefit of hind sight, it is definite that Agriculture and particularly food production would have remained at its infancy in the absence of Physics and Mathematics and perhaps in worse situation in the absence of mathematical Physics- which is the application to real physical situation for problem solving” he added. 

Earlier, the Vice-President National Association of Mathematical Physics, Professor Vincent Asor, in his welcome remarks admonished members and guests to play their part in making the Nation great again. He enthused further that there is need for individual to be patriotic, possess positive mindset cum values while adding that the work should not be left for government and policy makers alone. Professor Asor noted that the real change should begin with each and every one is making concerted effort to become better citizens. The NAMP’s Vice-President appreciated the Management of Landmark University for the support given to the Association to host this year’s colloquium. 

Lead paper presenters, Professor Samuel Okoya a professor of mathematics who delivered a paper titled “Relevance of Mathematical Physics to Everyday Living and National Development” corroborated early speaker’s point on the inevitability of mathematical physics to day to day activities. Professor Okoya who listed some of the challenges an average citizen encounter while building a formidable career as poor infrastructural, emotional and welfare concluded that these aforementioned challenges could be eradicated through the application of mathematical physics. 

Also, Professor Olabisi Oreofe Ugbebor the first female Professor of Mathematics in Nigeria applauded career women in her paper titled “Activities of Nigerian Women in Mathematics for National Development”. Professor Ugbebor said despite the huge disparity and discouragement career women come across in addition with the ability to multitask and balance all, women in the Nation are doing excellently well in their careers. She however urged men to support women in the making of a greater Nigeria. 

“I implored the National Mathematical Society and other stake holders present to rally round and support the Nigerian Women in Mathematics. This is necessary because when the Nigerian Mathematical Society does that, they will be laying a solid foundation for women in the coming generation to participate and contribute to mathematics. The Nigerian Women in Mathematics is committed to working in collaboration with government and other concerned bodies to address issues relating to female education in Nigeria, bringing mathematics to the fore, and thus contributing to the development of our nation. We will work hard to develop initiatives to sustain and accelerate the interest of the female gender in mathematics”, she advised. 

The National Working Committee of the Association had earlier met with the Management of Landmark University led by Professor Adeniyi Olaynju for familiarization visit. Highlight of the opening ceremony was the unveiling of the Association’s volume 47 publication.