The Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Ibadan Branch has recognized the Managing Director and CEO of CEOAfrica, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor for his immense support of OWSD Ibadan’s research and community engagement programs.

He was decorated and awarded as a “Friend of OWSD” during a special ceremony on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Oyo Road.

OWSD is a voluntary organisation aimed at fostering collaboration among women researchers in universities and allied institutions, emphasising research activities that focus on societal gains. As a proud programme unit of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), OWSD comprises female scientists and allied researchers from esteemed institutions including the University of Ibadan, The Polytechnic Ibadan, National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), National Agricultural Research and Technology Agencies (NAGGRAB), Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), NISER, and the Federal College of Health and Animal Production Technology (FCHAPT).

The organizations primary goal is to enhance the participation of women researchers in developing countries within the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as well as allied research areas such as social sciences and arts. Prince Ilobanafors commitment to advancing research in Nigeria and beyond represents a beacon of hope for both women and men looking to break through the glass ceiling.

OWSD Ibadan expressed gratitude to Ilobanafor for his invaluable contributions.

“Your unforgettable efforts have inspired early, mid, and advanced career researchers, making you a role model for both female and male students in higher education to emulate.” The organisation looks forward to honoring him for his impact on the community and the empowerment of women in research.
The event commence with a workshop, followed by the award ceremony, where Ilobanafor and other distinguished guests were recognized for their contributions as “Friends of OWSD.”

As OWSD Ibadan prepares to celebrate this momentous occasion, it continues to strive towards an inclusive future for women in science and aims to cultivate a supportive network for researchers across all disciplines.