The Governing Council of the National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Abuja, has announced the appointment of Prof. Benjamin Oyelami as the centre's eighth Director/Chief Executive. This appointment was made after a rigorous assessment and interview process by the council. According to the Controller, Information and Public Relations (NMC), Dr Onyekachi Njoku, Oyelami's appointment brings to the centre over three decades of experience in teaching, research, and academic management.
Prof. Oyelami is a professor of Mathematics specializing in Mathematical Modelling. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the University of Jos in 1988, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division. He then proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a master's degree in 1991, before earning a PhD in Mathematics from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, in 1999. His doctoral thesis was a notable achievement, being the first PhD work in Africa specializing in Impulsive Systems.
In addition to his academic achievements, Prof. Oyelami has had an illustrious career in various institutions. He joined the service of ATBU in 1991, where he rose through the ranks and later undertook a sabbatical at the National Mathematical Centre in 2002 before joining the centre fully in 2004. During his tenure, he has served in various capacities, including Coordinator of the Mathematics Programme, Discover Lesson Plans, Theoretical Physics Programme, and Academic Planning, as well as Deputy Director/Chief Executive of the centre.
Prof. Oyelami has also served as Head of the Department of Mathematics and Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences at Plateau State University, Bokkos. Furthermore, he has served on various Senate committees and academic boards at ATBU, Plateau State University, and NMC. His experience in academic leadership has prepared him to take on the role of Director/Chief Executive of the National Mathematical Centre.
Before his appointment as Director/Chief Executive, Prof. Oyelami was appointed Acting Director/Chief Executive of NMC in February. He is a prolific writer and author, whose works have been published in learned and peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. Additionally, he has participated in several international conferences as an invited speaker and led Nigerian teams to international Mathematical Olympiad competitions.
Prof. Oyelami's appointment has been described as a significant boost to the National Mathematical Centre. According to Dr Njoku, Oyelami is bringing 35 years of academic, managerial, and administrative experience to the leadership of the centre. He is a member and fellow of several professional bodies, including the American Mathematical Society, Nigeria Mathematical Society, and Mathematical Sciences Association of Nigeria.
The National Mathematical Centre has welcomed Prof. Oyelami's appointment, which is expected to bring new ideas and leadership to the institution. With his extensive experience and achievements, Prof. Oyelami is well-positioned to lead the centre to greater heights. His appointment is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the field of mathematics.
Key points
- Prof. Benjamin Oyelami appointed as the eighth Director/Chief Executive of the National Mathematical Centre.
- Oyelami brings over three decades of experience in teaching, research, and academic management to the centre.
- He has served in various capacities, including Coordinator of the Mathematics Programme and Deputy Director/Chief Executive of the centre.
