The University community came together in full force on Friday, March 28th, 2025, to celebrate a significant academic milestone: the 18th Inaugural Lecture of Pan-Atlantic University, delivered by Professor of Economics, Professor Emeka Osuji. The event, held at the Honeywell auditorium of Pan-Altantic University, was a vibrant testament to the intellectual spirit and collegial atmosphere that defines our institution.
The distinguished presence of the University’s leadership underscored the importance of the event. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Enase Okondeo, graced the podium to deliver a comprehensive citation of the inaugural lecturer, highlighting Professor Osuji’s remarkable contributions to his field and the university community. Seated amongst the attendees were other principal officers, including the Director of the Institute of Humanities, Dr Adaora Onaga, the Dean of Lagos Business School (LBS), Professor Olayinka David West, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, Dr Peter Bamkole, all demonstrating the collective pride in Professor Osuji’s achievement.
The title of Professor Osuji’s lecture, “Formality upon informality, the tail wags the dog,” immediately sparked intrigue. As he delved into his thesis, it became clear that this was not just a catchy phrase, but a powerful lens through which to examine the complexities of Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
Professor Osuji articulated his central argument with clarity and conviction, stating that the title was “a direct play on the structural and institutional incongruencies that have led to suboptimal performance, despite Nigeria’s vast possibilities and compossibilities.” He went on to elaborate on the inherent challenges of imposing formal institutions on a predominantly informal economy. The result, he argued, is often “suboptimal performance, exclusion and poverty of the multidimensional genre.”
His analysis resonated deeply with the audience, drawing attention to the often-overlooked dynamics at play when formal frameworks clash with deeply entrenched informal systems. Professor Osuji’s insights offered a fresh perspective on the persistent challenges facing the nation, prompting reflection on the need for more nuanced and context-aware approaches to development and governance.
What made Professor Osuji’s lecture particularly engaging was his ability to weave profound academic insights with moments of genuine humour. This delicate balance kept the audience captivated, making complex concepts accessible and fostering a lively intellectual atmosphere. His delivery was both thought-provoking and entertaining, leaving a lasting impression on all present.
The lecture culminated in a powerful and memorable call to action. As Professor Osuji concluded his insightful presentation, the auditorium erupted in a resounding chorus of “let the dog wags the tail!” This spontaneous and enthusiastic response encapsulated the essence of his argument – a plea for a re-evaluation of existing structures and a greater recognition of the power and potential inherent in the informal systems that underpin much of Nigerian society.
Professor Emeka Osuji’s inaugural lecture was more than just an academic exercise; it was a significant moment for Pan-Atlantic University and a valuable contribution to the ongoing discourse on Nigeria’s development. His insightful analysis, coupled with his engaging delivery, left the audience with much to ponder and a renewed sense of the need for innovative and contextually relevant solutions.
