Making the disclosure after receiving the global prestigious award and recognition, the microbiology lecturer stated that the global recognition is an inspiration that would make him to continue adding value in his field, mentoring the next generation of scientists, fostering collaboration with top researchers across the globe, publish in high impact and open-access journals to reach a broad audience, thus, advancing knowledge in microbial biotechnology and eco-friendly agriculture.

Findings showed that Dr. Adeleke, ranked 192,742 of 2% scientists globally, 3,452 out of 174,582 scientists in the field of Plant Biology and Botany and rated No 1 top scientist at OAUSTECH in the AD Scientific Index for 2023 and 2024 respectively. Dr. Adeleke is the first academic to receive such recognition since the inception of OAUSTECH.

Expressing his feeling on the global feat, Dr. Adeleke revealed that he felt highly elated for the global recognition. "I am incredibly honoured to be named among the top 2% scientists worldwide for 2024. The recognition is a significant achievement for OAUSTECH in it's mission to promote academic excellence and global recognition."

"This recognition is also a pivotal milestone in my career, underscoring my commitment to advancing microbial biotechnology and sustainable agricultural practices. I hope this achievement will inspire my university to encourage scientists through diverse support and motivate students, colleagues and fellow researchers to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to scientific community," he remarked.

The recognition, facilitated by Elsevier and Stanford University, identifies and honours the world's most influential scientists based on comprehensive analysis of scientific publications and citation metrics by highlighting those individuals that have made substantial contributions to global scientific knowledge.

Dr. Adeleke, a member of Nigerian Young Academy (NYA), earned his Bachelor's degree in Microbiology with second class honours (Upper Division) from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko in 2011, a Master's degree with Distinction in Food Microbiology from the Federal University of Technology, Akure in 2017 and his Doctoral degree in Science with Biology/Microbiology from North-West University, South Africa in 2022. He specialised in microbiology, microbial biotechnology, soil-plant-micro interactions, food security, sustainable agriculture and next generation sequencing.

The OAUSTECH world-class scientist, who earlier had been greatly commended and congratulated by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, said he dedicated the award to God almighty, his mentors, collaborators and particularly to his late father, Pa. Julius Adeleke Ajayi and his dear mother, Madam Veronica Ifefaola Ajayi for their care, good upbringing, patting and invaluable support.

SIGNED
Abiodun Peter Okunniga, FITD, MNIM, MANUPA,
Registrar and Secretary to Council