President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed Professor Ademola Adenle, a Nigerian scholar and sustainability expert, who recently became the inaugural recipient of the World Academy of Sciences–M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu congratulated Adenle for the achievement, noting the honour brings pride to Nigeria. He commended Adenle’s work in agricultural innovation policy, biosciences, renewable energy, and public health, particularly his focus on sustainable solutions for rural and marginalized communities in Africa and beyond. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari (CON).
Professor Adenle made history as the first-ever recipient of this prestigious award, presented by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7 August 2025 at the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, India. Often described as a “mini Nobel Peace Prize”, the award was established by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) in memory of Professor M.S. Swaminathan, the renowned agricultural scientist hailed as the “Father of India’s Green Revolution.”
Currently serving as Senior Special Adviser on Agricultural Innovation in Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Adenle was recognized for his outstanding contributions to food security, climate justice, and the empowerment of vulnerable communities.
Professor Adenle also announced plans to launch the Women in Biosciences Initiative, a program designed to enhance rural agricultural productivity through training, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The initiative will tackle malnutrition, waterborne diseases, and promote renewable energy adoption, particularly solar power, to address energy poverty. It will be implemented in partnership with the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, extending Professor Swaminathan’s legacy of combining science with social equity across Africa and Asia.
The M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace recognizes individuals from developing countries who have made transformative contributions to food security, sustainable agriculture, and peacebuilding.
At the award ceremony, Prime Minister Modi hailed Professor Adenle as a “beacon of hope” for his dedication to addressing some of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
