President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Prof. Ademola Adenle, a Nigerian scholar and sustainability expert, for winning the inaugural World Academy of Sciences–M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace.

‎Mr Tinubu received the award winner on Monday at the State House, Abuja, commending him for bringing honour to Nigeria through his pioneering work in agricultural innovation, biosciences, renewable energy, and public health.

‎This is contained in a statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

‎The president praised Mr Adenle for developing sustainable solutions that improve the lives of rural and marginalised communities across Africa and beyond.

‎The meeting was attended by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

‎Mr Adenle made history as the first-ever recipient of the global award, which was presented by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 7, 2025, during the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, India.

‎The award, described as a “mini Nobel Peace Prize,” was established by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) in memory of the late Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, the “Father of India’s Green Revolution.”

‎Mr Adenle, who serves as Senior Special Adviser on Agricultural Innovation at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, was recognised for his contributions to food security, climate justice, and the empowerment of vulnerable populations.

‎He announced plans to launch the Women in Biosciences Initiative, aimed at improving rural productivity through training, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

‎According to him, the initiative will also address malnutrition, waterborne diseases, and promote renewable energy adoption, particularly solar power, to combat energy poverty.

‎The programme will be implemented in partnership with the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation across Africa and Asia.

‎Indian Prime Minister Modi, while presenting the award, described Mr Adenle as “a beacon of hope” for his dedication to tackling humanity’s most pressing challenges.

(NAN)