By Thanni-Balogun Esther
Dr Ambimbola Olumide Adekanmbi has examined the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance through the One Health approach at the fourth Faculty of Science lecture by the Department of Microbiology, University of Ibadan.
The lecture, titled “Antibiotic Resistance Through the One Health Lens: A Mosaic of Aces and Offsides,” was held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at the Lakeside Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan.
The event commenced with the singing of the National Anthem, the University of Ibadan Anthem and the Faculty of Science Anthem following the lecturer’s arrival. His biography was subsequently read to the audience.
Adekanmbi, who was born on September 26, obtained a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) Honours degree in Microbiology from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, in 2006. He later obtained a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Environmental Microbiology from the University of Ibadan.
Furthermore, he has served in various academic and administrative capacities, including Assistant Hall Warden, Course Adviser, Congregational Representative and other roles. He currently serves as the Sub-Dean in the Department of Microbiology.
Commencing his lecture at 3:17 p.m., Dr Adekanmbi welcomed the dignitaries and attendees before describing the occasion as a historic day for the Department of Microbiology.
He explained the lecture’s title by describing a mosaic as a composition whose individual pieces may appear insignificant from a distance but form a meaningful picture when viewed together. He described “aces” as achievements in the fight against antibiotic resistance and “offsides” as setbacks that hinder progress.
“My journey into antibiotic resistance did not begin in a laboratory but from the sickbed,” he said, recounting how his personal experience with illness introduced him to the challenge of antibiotic resistance.
Adekanmbi discussed the discovery of penicillin in 1928 by Alexander Fleming and explained antibiotic resistance as a situation in which medicines that previously treated infections become less effective or stop working.
He stressed that antibiotic resistance extends beyond hospitals, describing it as a microbiological, societal, ecological, economic and developmental challenge.
The lecturer also highlighted the role of environmental pollution in the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, identifying surface water as a potential hotspot. He similarly drew attention to dumpsites as locations of concern.
“Water e no get enemy—until pollution changes the story”, he said, highlighting how environmental contamination can make water dangerous.
Adekanmbi emphasised the need for perseverance in addressing antibiotic resistance, noting the complexity of the challenge across human, animal and environmental health.
He concluded by acknowledging the individuals who had supported him throughout his academic journey. The event ended with the singing of the Faculty of Science Anthem, the University of Ibadan Anthem and the National Anthem.
