The Vice-Chancellor of Baba Ahmed University, Kano, Professor Adamu Idris Tanko, has highlighted the critical role of geography and research in addressing environmental, economic and development challenges in Nigeria and across Africa.
He spoke on Thursday, April 30, 2026, while delivering the 59th Inaugural Lecture of Bayero University, Kano.
Professor Tanko, a renowned academic, previously served at Bayero University, Kano in several key roles, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), before his current appointment.
In his lecture titled “One World, Different Nations … and the Many Lessons to Learn,” the Professor of Geography from the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences traced his academic journey and emphasised the link between human activities and the environment.
He recalled his early research on the environmental impact of industrial activities, noting how human actions significantly influence environmental quality.
Professor Tanko revealed that his study of water quality in the Kano River Irrigation Project found that high salinity levels could degrade irrigated soils. The breakthrough earned him international recognition early in his career, including nominations to the American Geophysical Union and the American Institute of Physics.
He further underscored the importance of research in improving livelihoods. Drawing from his collaboration with the University of Sussex, he explained how urban farming can boost income and enhance food security.
Citing another study conducted in Brighton, United Kingdom, Professor Tanko said his research on air quality helped debunk inaccurate environmental claims and supported the revival of tourism in the area.
The scholar also highlighted his consultancy and collaborative engagements with international bodies, including the United Nations Development Programme and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. According to him, these partnerships contributed to the development of water management systems and other critical infrastructure in the Komadugu-Yobe River Basin.
He stressed the importance of ethics in both academic research and everyday life, referencing efforts to establish the Business Ethics Network of Africa.
In his concluding remarks, Professor Tanko drew comparisons between developed and developing nations, noting that many developing countries continue to grapple with poverty, environmental pressures and economic challenges. He emphasised that a clear understanding of geographical realities is essential for achieving sustainable development.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, Professor Haruna Musa—represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Ahmad Muhammad Tsauni—described inaugural lectures as a vital platform for professors to showcase their research contributions and academic experiences. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting such scholarly engagements.
Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Professor Raji, presented the biography of the inaugural lecturer, highlighting his distinguished career, including his service as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), and pioneer Dean of the Faculty.
