Professor Ruth Olubukola Ajoke Adelagbun, a distinguished academic in environmental chemistry, delivered her inaugural lecture and launched her new book “Environmental Impact Assessment: A Concise Series” on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Wukari, Taraba State.The day began with her inaugural lecture which held at the Prof. Geoffrey Okogba Hall, Federal University Wukari, Titled: “No Wastage: Coagulate the Broken Fragments" where she emphasized the idea that nothing is truly waste, and that every discarded element can be reused or transformed toward building a sustainable future. She encouraged scholars, policymakers, traditional rulers, industrial leaders and the general public to embrace a mindset of restoration and innovation, particularly in environmental management. The lecture further traced her academic journey, research milestones, and deep commitment to environmental education. Professor Ruth, made history as the first female Inaugural lecturer in Federal University Wukari.In attendance was the Vice Chancellor of the university duly represented, the Deputy Vice Chancellors, members of the Senate, Deans, Heads of Department, staff, Union leaders and members and students of the university.Other guests invited were HRH the Aku-Uka of Wukari, the Chancellor of the university, the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University as well as other academics in various universities across Nigeria, Media corporations including the Kwararafa TV amongst others. The Vice Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, congratulated and praised her efforts so far. He described Professor Ruth wit as reliable and impactful and she indeed proved it true. Faculty members, colleagues, students, and other guests also commended her contributions as deeply impactful in addressing Nigeria’s pressing environmental concerns.This program soon ended and the procession marched out for photoshoots followed by the remaining guest.Later that day, at 4:00 p.m., the book launch took place at the Elizabeth Centre, attracting a distinguished audience. The Aku-Uka of the Kwararafa Kingdom was duly represented, as were the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University, and Senator Emmanuel Bwacha of Taraba South. Professors and staff from Federal University Wukari, participants from universities across Nigeria (joining virtually), alumni, students, Kwararafa TV and community members were also in attendance.Professor Eneji I., who served as the book’s previewer, unveiled the book and applauded its clear, practical approach to sustainability and environmental education.Speaking at the event, Dr. Clement, the Chairman of the occasion who joined virtually, lauded the author’s resilience and described the book as "a must have for every individual and institution seeking environmental consciousness."Attendees also saluted the author and expressed admiration for the book’s general value.The Master of Ceremony described it as “not just a book of chemical solutions, but also one of sociological lessons as it responds to even societal and cultural matters.” More so, the author's former students and supervisees presented her with an award of excellence for her contributions to their academic and personal development and to the department of chemistry FUW as a whole. Cultural performances added colour to the event, with Jukun and Yoruba dancers entertaining the audience while guests were refreshed. The event concluded with generous donations toward the book’s publication, led by representatives of the Aku-Uka, Senator Bwacha, the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University Dr. Clement, the chairman and Mr. Tunde Lawrence of UBA, among others.In her closing remarks, Prof. Adelagbun expressed heartfelt appreciation to the VC, department, colleagues and students of FUW. She also thanked the Jukun community, family and friends for their support. A group photo session brought the successful day to a celebratory close. The book "Environmental Impact Assessment: A Concise Text" is now available in selected bookstores within and outside FUW and online platforms.

Report by Cynthia Ganchok Ngwetar.

Chief Creative Writer TAHRIFF