Ogbuoshi Delivers ESUT’s 44th Inaugural Lecture

The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) recently hosted its 44th Inaugural Lecture, titled “Communication Innovation Paradigm in the Digital Age: Silent Saboteurs Shaping Psychological Security in Nigeria.”

The lecture was delivered by Prof. Linus Iloegbunam Ogbuoshi Chibueze, a distinguished professor of Mass Communication.

Held at the newly built Peter Mbah Multipurpose Auditorium, the lecture focused on the merits and demerits of social media in today’s technological age. Prof. Ogbuoshi Chibueze highlighted the negative effects of social media, including phone addiction, internet fraud, cyberbullying, fake news, and invasion of privacy.

Prof. Ogbuoshi emphasized the importance of effective communication in learning and life, appealing to the Vice Chancellor to make Introduction to Mass Communication a compulsory course for all first-year students so that they can learn the basics of communication. He advised Nigerian professors to shun corruption and act as role models who espouse enduring values for national growth and social cohesion.

During the lecture, Prof. Ogbuoshi Chibueze shed light on the “silent saboteurs” that undermine the benefits of digital innovation. These saboteurs, he explained, profoundly impact Nigerians’ psychosocial security, eroding their sense of security, identity, and community. As people spend more time online, they become increasingly vulnerable to cybercriminals, online harassment, and misinformation.

In Nigeria, where the digital divide persists, the consequences are particularly severe. Many Nigerians struggle to adapt to rapid technological changes, feeling disconnected, anxious, and uncertain about their place in the digital world. Prof. Ogbuoshi specifically highlighted internet fraudsters, misinformation, and invasion of privacy as significant threats.

He cautioned the audience to exercise caution when sharing personal information on social media or with unknown individuals, emphasizing the importance of protecting oneself in the digital age.

In his opening remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Aloysius Michaels Okolie noted that the university is committed to academic excellence and is moving in the right direction. He announced that the Chairman of ESUT’s Governing Council, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, has promised to give every inaugural lecturer One Million Naira, while Engr. Sir Dr. Innocent Akuvue, Alumni representative to the university’s Governing Council, has pledged Five Hundred Thousand Naira.

Prof. Okolie also announced plans to unveil the ESUT’s Pharmacy Building, which is 98% completed, and to make teaching and learning at the university technologically oriented.

The ceremony included the unveiling of a 560-page book written in honor of Prof. Ogboshi Chibueze by his mentees, cultural dances, and entertainment of guests.

The lecture was well-attended, with scholars from various universities and polytechnics, students, captains of industry, government functionaries, and community leaders in attendance. Prof. Ogboshi received an award as a distinguished professor who has made significant contributions to his field.

The event was a testament to ESUT’s commitment to academic excellence and its role in shaping the next generation of Nigerian leaders. As the university continues to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of society, it is clear that ESUT is poised for greatness.