The Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has announced its 68th Inaugural Lecture, scheduled to focus on the growing challenges of insect pests and their impact on agricultural productivity.
The lecture is being organised under the authority of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, on behalf of the University Senate and Management, and is open to members of the university community and the general public.
Focus On Agricultural Entomology And Food Security
The inaugural lecture will examine the role of insect pests in crop losses and the broader implications for food security in modern agriculture.
The topic of the lecture is Tiny Insect Pests and Huge Crop Losses: Dilemma of an Agricultural Entomologist, reflecting ongoing concerns about sustainable farming and effective pest management strategies.
Lecturer And Academic Profile
The lecture will be delivered by Prof. Elechi Franca Asawalam, a Professor of Agricultural Entomology in the Department of Plant Health Management, College of Crop and Soil Sciences.
Prof. Asawalam holds a B.Sc in Agriculture from the University of Ibadan, an M.Sc from the same institution, and a Ph.D from Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. She is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Society for Plant Protection.
Date, Time And Venue
The inaugural lecture is scheduled as follows:
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Date: Wednesday, 11th February, 2026
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Time: 1:00 pm prompt
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Venue: Senator Anyim Pius Anyim Auditorium, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
Virtual Participation Details
Participants who are unable to attend physically will have the opportunity to join the lecture virtually via Zoom.
EducationNGR also learnt that the virtual option is intended to broaden access to the event for academics, researchers, and members of the public interested in agricultural development and food security.
Lecture Committee And Officials
The event is being coordinated by the university’s Public Lecture Committee, chaired by Prof. Nneoma Elechi Obasi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
The Registrar of the university, Dr. (Mrs.) Nkeiruka Charity Mbanasor, is also listed among the principal officers associated with the lecture.