In the heart of Nigeria, a nation rich with intellectual prowess yet grappling with developmental challenges, stood Bamidele Ogbe Solomon, a man whose name became synonymous with the advancement of biotechnology. Born on July 7, 1955, in Idofin-Isanlu, Kogi State, Solomon was not just a professor of chemical engineering but a visionary who dedicated his life to harnessing biotechnology for the betterment of his country.
Bamidele Solomon’s journey began in the classrooms of ECWA Secondary School, Mopa, and Federal Government College, Sokoto, where his passion for science was ignited. This flame was further fueled at Kansas State University, where he pursued and completed his PhD in chemical and biochemical engineering in 1983. His academic voyage didn’t stop there; he went on to receive fellowships from prestigious institutions like the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in Germany and the International Foundation for Science in Sweden, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and innovation.
Upon returning to Nigeria, Solomon’s career took a significant turn when he joined Ladoke Akintola University of Technology as an associate lecturer. His ascent to Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering by 2000 was but a testament to his leadership and scholarly contributions. However, it was his role as the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) from 2005 to 2013 that truly marked his legacy.
During his tenure at NABDA, Solomon was instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s biotechnology policy. His advocacy was pivotal in the passage of the Biosafety bill, which led to the establishment of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA). This was not merely policy-making; it was about creating a framework where science could serve society safely and effectively. His work touched on critical areas like agricultural biotechnology, health, and environmental conservation, aiming to solve some of Nigeria’s pressing issues through scientific innovation.
One of Solomon’s notable contributions was in the realm of bioremediation, particularly in the treatment of crude oil-polluted environments. His research into microbial degradation processes offered hope in addressing environmental degradation caused by oil spills in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, an area long plagued by ecological challenges.
Beyond his scientific endeavors, Bamidele Solomon was a mentor, a teacher at heart, whose influence transcended the laboratory. He was known for his humility, his ability to listen, and his dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists. His legacy in this regard is captured in the heartfelt tributes from those he mentored, who remember him not just for his intellectual contributions but for his compassionate guidance.
His passing on May 10, 2023, left a void in Nigeria’s scientific community, but his vision for a biotechnologically advanced Nigeria continues to inspire. Solomon’s work in promoting biotechnology as a tool for development, his commitment to education, and his unwavering belief in the potential of Nigerian science have set a high standard for future generations to aspire to.
Today, as we reflect on the life of Bamidele Ogbe Solomon, we are reminded of the power of dedication, the impact of visionary leadership, and the importance of applying science for societal good. His story is not just one of academic achievement but of a man who saw beyond the conventional, aiming to transform his nation through biotechnology. In his memory, let us continue to push the boundaries of science, ensuring that his dream of a self-reliant, biotechnologically vibrant Nigeria becomes a reality.
Bamidele Solomon’s legacy is a beacon, guiding us towards a future where science and society walk hand in hand towards progress.
