Born: 1940 (Plateau State, Northern Nigeria)
Biography:
Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye, a Nigerian geophysicist, was born in 1940 in Plateau State, Northern Nigeria. She is renowned as the first female physics professor in Africa and her significant contributions to the field of geophysics have played a vital role in mining operations in Nigeria.
Ajakaiye’s journey began in the city of Jos, the capital of Plateau State, where she was the fifth of six children. Raised in a household that believed in equal education for both genders, her parents instilled the value of hard work and distributed household chores equally among their sons and daughters. This nurturing environment fostered Ajakaiye’s innate curiosity and ambition.
In 1962, Ajakaiye graduated from the University of Ibadan with a bachelor’s degree in physics. However, her passion for mathematics initially compelled her. Recognizing the potential impact of geophysics on her nation, she decided to pursue it further. She proceeded to obtain a master’s degree from the University of Birmingham in England before returning to Nigeria. In 1970, she received her Ph.D. in geophysics from Ahmadu Bello University, solidifying her expertise in the field.
Ajakaiye’s dedication to her craft was evident when she attended the Second International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists in Cambridge in 1967. Her presence at the conference banquet, captured alongside fellow Nigerian physicist Ebun Adegbohungbe, was featured in The Woman Engineer’s report of the conference, signifying her emerging prominence.
Throughout her career, Ajakaiye held teaching positions at Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Jos. In 1980, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first female professor of physics in Africa. Additionally, she served as the dean of natural sciences at the University of Jos.
Ajakaiye’s contributions to geophysics have had a profound impact on Nigeria’s mining sector. Her pioneering work in geovisualization techniques has been instrumental in locating mineral deposits and groundwater resources within the country. One of her notable achievements includes the creation of a gravity map of Nigeria, which serves as a valuable resource for geological studies. Collaborating with her female students, Ajakaiye exemplifies the importance of mentorship and empowering the next generation of geoscientists.
In her post-retirement years, Ajakaiye dedicated her time to the Community Conservation and Women Awareness (CCWA), a charity organization she founded in 1991. Through CCWA, she aimed to make a lasting impact on Nigerian communities, focusing on areas such as education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment.
Ajakaiye’s remarkable contributions have garnered recognition and accolades both nationally and internationally. The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society honored her for her scientific advancements, making her the first woman to receive this prestigious award. Additionally, she became the first black African to be named a fellow of the Geological Society of London, further solidifying her influence and esteem within the global scientific community.
Deborah Ajakaiye’s brilliance, groundbreaking achievements, and unwavering dedication have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the field of geophysics. Her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, empowering women, and aiding her nation make her an exemplar of resilience, intelligence, and inspiration in women’s history.
Awards:
– Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society Award for her scientific advancements
– Fellow of the Geological Society of London, the first black African to receive this recognition