Prof. Evans Osabuohien
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The first week of December 2024 was filled with remarkable activities for Prof Evans Osabuohien. It was a demonstration of how much can be achieved through meticulous organisation, divine guidance, and the unwavering support of a robust network. From workshops and training sessions to celebrations and collaborations, the week proved that with faith, preparation, and support, what seems overwhelming can become impactful and rewarding.
Day 1 & 2: Grant Writing Workshop at Covenant University
On Monday, December 2, Prof. Evans Osabuohien kicked off the week as a resource person at a grant-writing workshop organised by the International Office and Linkages, Covenant University. This two-day workshop attracted participants from various West African countries, with the goal of equipping them to excel in collaborative research grant initiatives.
The first day focused on ‘Foundations of Grant Writing and Core Skills: Background Research and Strong Methodology’, providing the essentials of crafting a compelling research grant proposal, particularly the role of background knowledge and methodology. Participants were introduced to the critical elements of grantsmanship, emphasizing the need for clarity and precision in proposal writing.
On Tuesday, December 3, the second day of the workshop, Prof. Osabuohien tackled the subject of ‘Risk Evaluation and Management in Grantsmanship’. He provided practical steps for identifying and mitigating potential risks in both the grant writing and execution phases. The sessions were engaging, and the participants left with actionable strategies to enhance their competitiveness in grant applications.
It was a great privilege to facilitate the workshop along with academic leaders, notably Prof Abiodun Adebayo (immediate past VC of Covenant University), Dr Isaac Akinwumi (Director of International Office and Linkages) and Prof Solomon Rotimi (Head, Department of Biochemistry).
Day 3: Legislative Capacity Building at NILDS, Abuja
No sooner had the workshop concluded than Prof Evans Osabuohien headed for the airport to board a flight to Abuja for his next engagement at the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS). On Wednesday, December 4, he facilitated a training session aimed at empowering staff of the research and academic departments to secure grants for their projects.
The event, which was well-attended by distinguished guests including the Director-General of NILDS and a former Minister of National Planning, Prof Abubakar O. Sulaiman and other dignitaries including Prof Olaniyi Oyinlola, Director of Economic and Social Research at NILDS, Prof Shola Omotola, Sabbatical Staff NILDS, Prof Augustine Odili, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Dr Sola Omoju, Dr Osaretin Godspower Okungbowa, among others. Speaking on ‘Guide to Crafting a Compelling Grant Proposal’ provided insights and experiential knowledge on what it takes to secure competitive research grants. Prof Osabuohien drew from ongoing project ‘The Commandments of Grantsmanship and Scholarship’ and elaborated on the principles of securing competitive grants, highlighting the importance of innovative thinking, strategic alignment, and effective proposal articulation.
The participants were energised by his insights, leaving with a renewed determination to elevate their research output through successful grant applications.
Day 4: Swedish Christmas Celebration
On Thursday, December 5, Prof. Osabuohien was at the Swedish Embassy in Nigeria for the annual Lucia celebration at Quintessence, Ikoyi, Lagos. This event, steeped in Swedish tradition, brought together alumni of the Swedish Institute and professionals connected to Sweden.
As an alumnus of the Swedish Institute, it was a special moment for Prof Evans Osabuohien to reconnect with old friends and expand his network after doing part of his doctoral research at Lund University, 2009/2010. The gathering provided an opportunity for informal discussions and reflections on shared experiences, with a focus on fostering future collaborations. It was a refreshing interlude amidst a busy week, reminding all present of the importance of international friendships and cultural exchange. It was a refreshing moment to have conversation with the Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria (Annika Hahn-Englund) and other dignitaries.
Day 5: Representing Covenant University at Pan-Atlantic University
The next day, Friday, December 6, took Prof Evans Osabuohien to the 21st convocation ceremony of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), where he represented the Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University.
The event was a celebration of academic excellence and provided a platform for engaging with fellow academics and university leaders, including representatives from institutions such as University of Lagos, Babcock University, among others. A highlight of the day was meeting Dr Taiwo Oluwafumilayo Olusa, a longstanding collaborator and part of the African Scholars Mentorship Network (ASMN), the Registrar/CEO of Institute of Educational Leadership Practitioners of Nigeria (IELPN) , for the first time in person. Their meeting underscored the value of turning virtual connections into real-world relationships.
Additionally, it was a proud moment to witness the convocation of outstanding students, making the day both professionally enriching and personally gratifying especially the privilege of representing the 6th Substantive VC of Covenant University (Prof Timothy Anake) as well as meeting other Council Members of Nigerian Economic Society (NES), notably Prof Emeka Osuji and Dr Ekundayo Mesagan.
Day 6: A Joyful Wedding Celebration
On Saturday, December 7, Prof Evans Osabuohien with his spouse (Patience Evans-Osabuohien) and other family friends attended the wedding of a colleague and family friend (Dr Emmanuel Efe-Imafidon) in Lagos. The ceremony was a vibrant occasion, filled with joy and camaraderie.
The event was a reminder of the importance of celebrating milestones with loved ones. Despite the busy week, it was heart-warming to take time to rejoice with others, reaffirming the bonds of friendship and support.
Day 7: Honouring Prof Abiodun Adebayo with a Surprise Celebration
The week culminated on Sunday, December 8, with a surprise birthday celebration for Prof Abiodun Adebayo, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University. The occasion also marked a thanksgiving to commemorate the successful completion of his tenure. The surprised birthday blast was championed by the spouse of his youth -Dr Patricia Olufunke Adebayo
Surrounded by colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, the celebration was a moment to reflect on the power of gratitude and the impact of dedicated service in leadership.
Reflections on an Eventful Week
Prof. Evans Osabuohien’s week highlights the power of intentional planning, divine direction, and the support of a reliable network. Balancing such a demanding schedule was made possible by the unwavering support of his family, particularly his wife, who accompanied him to many of the events.
This week reinforced a profound lesson: we achieve more than we imagine when we are organised, collaborate effectively, and lean on a strong support system. With faith and preparation, even the busiest schedules can be transformed into impactful and fulfilling journeys.
As the year progresses, may we all embrace the power of organisation and the strength of support systems to navigate life’s many adventures.
To this end, I am delighted to invite you to join us celebrate the wonders of God at SHILOH 2024 as we tap into ‘Ever-Winning Wisdom’ to keep winning at our various endeavours.
Happy New Week;
Happy Shiloh Week;
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in Advance
