By By Ademola Ajao
Emeritus Professor Kayode Oyesiku has affirmed that the geography of the future will be less cumbersome due to advancements in technology.
He made this assertion while delivering a public lecture at the 80th birthday celebration of Professor Bola Ayeni, titled: “Quantity in Geography: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”, which took place on Tuesday at the Large Lecture Theatre, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan.
Prof Oyesiku explained that from the mid-20th century Quantitative Revolution to the present day, quantification has profoundly shaped geography. According to him, this shift has taken the discipline from descriptive mapping to analytical, model-driven exploration of spatial processes, integrating statistical, mathematical, and computational methods.
He observed that modern tools such as GIS, remote sensing, big data, and spatial analytics now enable geographers to layer, visualise, and analyse complex datasets. Real-time monitoring of human mobility, urbanisation, and environmental change has also become possible through technology including satellites, drones, and mobile data.
Looking ahead, he said the future of quantification in geography will involve artificial intelligence, machine learning, immersive visualisation (VR/AR), and systems-based models that integrate environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
Prof Oyesiku emphasised that geographers must balance predictive accuracy with ethical responsibility, inclusivity, and social relevance to ensure their work contributes meaningfully to society.
Speaking on the humility of Prof Ayeni, he described the celebrant as very humble, patient, and deeply committed to students, always ensuring they grasp concepts by asking, “Do you understand?” and repeating lessons until full comprehension is achieved.
Regarding Prof Ayeni’s mentorship, he noted that the scholar has had a profound personal and professional impact, providing knowledge, opportunities, and skills that have enabled many students to succeed and pass that knowledge on to others.
In his words:
“His character is marked by integrity, dedication, and generosity, consistently inspiring and guiding students while maintaining accessibility and respect. Words cannot fully express the gratitude and admiration owed to a teacher who has shaped lives, careers, and perspectives over decades.”
Highlighting Prof Ayeni’s achievements, Prof Oyesiku described him as a trailblazer whose career reflects excellence in academia, research, administration, and consulting, culminating in his role as the founding Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University.
He added that Prof Ayeni is widely recognised for intelligence, discipline, meticulousness, dependability, and high academic standards, balanced with a personable and human-centred approach.
“Prof Ayeni is a change manager par excellence, successfully navigating institutional challenges and laying foundations for future development. His contributions transcend the university, impacting national and international scholarship, policy, and professional practice.”
He further noted that Prof Ayeni’s thoroughness, diligence, humour, and relatability have strengthened both learning and mentorship.
“Prof Ayeni’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of geographers, planners, and leaders, cementing his place as a visionary and transformative academic administrator.”
Chairman of the occasion, Prof Abel Idowu Olayinka, remarked that Geology as a discipline in the University of Ibadan started in the Department of Geography in 1958 — the year Prof Ayeni was born.
“The beautiful thing about education is that you teach some students, and they become lecturers while you are still in the system,” he said.
He added that the University of Ibadan has a rich tradition and would remain thriving “if our Lord Jesus Christ tarries in His second coming” even in the next 50 years.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Kayode Adebowale, Prof Peter Olapegba congratulated the celebrant, noting:
“In Nigeria today, if you live to be 60, it is grace; if you live to be 70, it is great grace; and if you live to be 80, it is amazing grace. So, we are all here to celebrate the amazing grace of God.”
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