A Professor of Geography, Adamu Idris Tanko, has highlighted the critical role of geography and research in addressing environmental, economic, and development challenges in Nigeria and across Africa.
He made this known while delivering the 59th Inaugural Lecture at Bayero University Kano on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
The lecture, titled “One World, Different Nations … and the Many Lessons to Learn,” highlighted the importance of understanding human-environment interactions for sustainable development.
Prof. Tanko, from the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, traced his academic journey and research focus, emphasizing how human activities impact environmental quality. He reflected on his early studies on the environmental effects of industrial activities and their implications for ecosystems and livelihoods.
The scholar revealed that his research on water quality in the Kano River Irrigation Project identified high salt content as a major threat to irrigated soil. He noted that the findings earned him international recognition early in his career, including nominations into the American Geophysical Union and the American Institute of Physics.
Prof. Tanko, who currently serves as Vice-Chancellor of Baba Ahmed University, stressed the importance of research in improving livelihoods. Drawing from his collaboration with the University of Sussex, he explained how urban farming initiatives can enhance income generation and food security.
He also cited an air quality study conducted in Brighton, United Kingdom, which helped correct misleading environmental claims and contributed to the revival of tourism activities in the area.
Further highlighting his contributions, Prof. Tanko spoke on his consultancy and collaborative work with international organisations such as the United Nations Development Programme and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. According to him, these partnerships supported the development of water management systems and other critical infrastructure in the Komadugu Yobe River Basin.
The professor also emphasized the need for ethics in academic research and daily life, noting efforts toward establishing the Business Ethics Network of Africa.
In his conclusion, he compared developed and developing nations, noting that many developing countries continue to grapple with poverty, environmental pressure, and economic challenges. He stressed that a proper understanding of geographical realities is essential for sustainable development.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Haruna Musa, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Ahmad Muhammad Tsauni, described inaugural lectures as a platform for professors to showcase their research contributions and academic experiences. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting such academic engagements.
Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Professor Raji, presented the biography of the inaugural lecturer, highlighting his previous roles, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), and pioneer Dean of the faculty.