Mr Ngwa Azibo| Natural Resources Management | Best Researcher Award

Mr Ngwa Azibo| Natural Resources Management | Best Researcher Award

Faculty Coordinator |Bamenda University Institutes of Science and Technology,Cameroon

Mr. Ngwa Kester Azibo is a committed and impactful researcher whose work bridges academia and field-based development. His research focuses on real-world challenges affecting communities in Cameroon and sub-Saharan Africa, particularly disaster resilience, rural development, and environmental sustainability. His publication record, consultancy roles, and field expertise make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Google scholar Profile

Education 

Ngwa Kester Azibo is a seasoned development and environmental professional with a solid academic foundation. He holds a Master of Science in Rural Development and Administration from the University of Dschang (2017–2019) and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences from the University of Buea (2006–2009). Further enhancing his analytical skills, he earned a certificate in Data Analysis Using SPSS from BUST Bamenda in 2012. This academic preparation laid a firm groundwork for his extensive engagement in research, fieldwork, and consultancy in sustainable development and humanitarian services.

Professional Experience

Mr. Ngwa currently serves as the Faculty Coordinator and Data Manager at BUST University Bamenda, a role he has held since April 2019. Prior to this, he gained vital experience as a Consultant for Infrastructure Development Consultants (IDC) Bamenda, focusing on community water supply in Cameroon’s North West and South West regions (2014–2015). Earlier, from 2010 to 2011, he contributed to Strategic Humanitarian Services (SHUMAS) in the Agriculture and Environmental Management Department, strengthening his expertise in grassroots development and environmental resilience.

Research and Field Expertise

Mr. Ngwa has a robust background in field data collection, having participated in numerous socio-environmental projects, including studies on flood victims, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and livelihoods across Cameroon between 2009 and 2021. His work spans collaborations with organizations such as SNV, DEH Cameroon, and Volkswagen Postdoctoral Fellowship. These experiences have honed his field methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and socio-economic impact assessments.

Consultancy and Project Roles

He has served as a consultant for leading international and local development bodies such as Plan International and IITA Yaoundé, where he delivered expert analysis on children’s welfare, emergency responses, cash and voucher approaches, and agricultural yield studies. His consultancy skills include evaluation reporting, statistical data interpretation, and the design of tailored development interventions.

Research Interests and Focus Areas

Ngwa Kester Azibo’s primary research focus lies at the intersection of livelihood security, climate-related disaster resilience, rural development, and environmental sustainability. His research critically evaluates the socio-economic implications of floods, renewable energy, and donor-funded projects on vulnerable communities in Sub-Saharan Africa. He is particularly interested in how nonprofit models and informal mechanisms shape adaptive responses to crises.

Skills and Competencies

He is proficient in statistical analysis tools (notably SPSS), data presentation, GIS, and research management. His skillset is complemented by his capacity to facilitate training seminars, guide academic programs, and contribute to knowledge dissemination in both academic and field-based settings. Valencian Government in 2006–2007. These accolades underscore her influence in advancing evidence-based interventions and public policies. Dr. Vives-Cases’ awards not only reflect academic excellence but also a sustained commitment to addressing gender-based violence, improving health systems, and empowering vulnerable populations. Her recognition across both national and international arenas affirms her status as a leading researcher in her field.

Conclusion

Ngwa Kester Azibo meets and exceeds the criteria in many core areas. Recognizing his work would not only be well-deserved but could also further amplify the relevance and reach of research emerging from Cameroon and the broader African region.

Publications Top Notes

 

    • Mehrabi, Z., Delzeit, R., Ignaciuk, A., Levers, C., Braich, G., Bajaj, K., et al. (2022). research priorities for global food security under extreme events. One Earth, 5(7), 756–766.

    • Bang, H. N., & Balgah, R. A. (2022). The ramification of Cameroon’s Anglophone crisis: conceptual analysis of a looming “Complex Disaster Emergency”. Journal of International Humanitarian Action, 7(1), 6.

    • Innocent, N. M., Bitondo, D., & Azibo, B. R. (2016). Climate variability and change in the Bamenda highlands of North Western Cameroon: Perceptions, impacts and coping mechanisms. British Journal of Applied Science and Technology, 12(5), 1–18.

    • Kimengsi, J. N., Mukong, A. K., & Balgah, R. A. (2020). Livelihood diversification and household well-being: Insights and policy implications for forest-based communities in Cameroon. Society & Natural Resources, 33(7), 876–895.

    • Kimengsi, J. N., & Balgah, R. A. (2021). Colonial hangover and institutional bricolage processes in forest use practices in Cameroon. Forest Policy and Economics, 125, 102406.

    • Kimengsi, J. N., Kechia, M. A., Azibo, B. R., Pretzsch, J., & Kwei, J. (2019). Households’ assets dynamics and ecotourism choices in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Sustainability, 11(7), 1844.

    • Balgah, R. A. (2019). Factors influencing coffee farmers’ decisions to join cooperatives. Sustainable Agriculture Research, 8(1), 42–58.

    • Azibo, B. R., & Kimengsi, J. N. (2015). Building an indigenous agro-pastoral adaptation framework to climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa: experiences from the North West Region of Cameroon. Procedia Environmental Sciences, 29, 126–127.

    • Balgah, R. A., Bang, H. N., & Fondo, S. A. (2019). Drivers for coping with flood hazards: Beyond the analysis of single cases. Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies, 11(1), 1–9.

    • Buchenrieder, G., & Balgah, R. A. (2013). Sustaining livelihoods around community forests. What is the potential contribution of wildlife domestication? The Journal of Modern African Studies, 51(1), 57–84.

Ermias Debie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ermias Debie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Dr. Ermias Debie is a dedicated academic in the field of Environment and Natural Resources Management, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia. With a strong commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues, he integrates research with community engagement to enhance sustainable practices and improve livelihoods in the Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia.

Profile

Scopus Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Debie holds a Ph.D. in Environment and Natural Resources Management from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. He has furthered his expertise with a specialized certificate in GIS and remote sensing applications for water resources management from a prestigious institution in the Netherlands, showcasing his commitment to leveraging technology in environmental studies.

Experience 💼

With a rich background in academia, Dr. Debie has held various positions, including Assistant Professor and Department Head at Bahir Dar University and Debre Markos University. His roles have spanned teaching, research supervision, and course leadership, reflecting his dedication to fostering academic excellence. He has supervised over 50 MA and MSc students and is currently mentoring a Ph.D. student, further contributing to the development of future scholars in his field.

Research Interests 🔍

Dr. Debie’s research interests encompass a wide array of topics, including livelihood resilience, climate change and variability, food insecurity, climate-smart innovations, agrobiodiversity, and sustainable land management. His work aims to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change while promoting ecological restoration across different levels.

Publications 📚

Dr. Debie has a robust publication record, contributing significantly to the field of environmental management. Here are some of his key publications:

  1. A local perspective on the links between flora biodiversity and ecosystem services in the Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia (2024), Journal of Environmental Management.
  2. Analysis of the decision to convert croplands into E. Camaldulensis woodlot and its impact on income diversification in Mecha district, Northwest Ethiopia (2024), Trees, Forests and People.
  3. Endemic plant species and threats to their sustainability in Ethiopia: A systematic review (2024), Trees, Forests and People.
  4. Effectiveness of sustainable land management initiatives in the highlands of Ethiopia (2024), Regional Environmental Change.
  5. The impacts of land use/cover changes on values of ecosystem service in Tul watershed, northwest Ethiopia (2023), ERJSSH.
  6. Perceived determinants of smallholder households’ resilience to livelihood insecurity in Goncha District, Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia (2023), SAGE Open.

His extensive publication list reflects his active engagement in scholarly research and contributions to understanding environmental challenges in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

Dr. Ermias Debie’s commitment to education, research, and community service positions him as a key figure in environmental management in Ethiopia. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also fosters sustainable practices that positively impact local communities. As he continues to explore new avenues for research and community engagement, his influence in the field will undoubtedly grow, driving forward the agenda of environmental sustainability and resilience.

Sodipe Solaja | Agricultural Environmental Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sodipe Solaja | Agricultural Environmental Economics | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer II, Landmark University, Omu Aran, Nigeria

Solaja Sodipe Oluwaseun, born on March 21, 1986, in Ijebu Igbo, Nigeria, is a dedicated academic currently serving as a Lecturer II at Landmark University. With a strong background in Agricultural Economics, he has contributed significantly to the field through teaching, research, and publications. Married and deeply rooted in his Christian faith, Solaja is committed to advancing agricultural practices and policies in Nigeria.

Profile

Orcid

Evaluation for Best Researcher Award: Solaaja Sodipe Oluwaseun

Strengths:

  1. Academic Qualifications and Experience:
    • Solaaja Sodipe Oluwaseun holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Landmark University, with additional degrees from the University of Ibadan and Olabisi Onabanjo University.
    • His academic tenure at Landmark University as a Lecturer II, coupled with previous teaching and professional experiences, showcases a strong foundation in agricultural economics and education.
  2. Research and Publications:
    • Oluwaseun has a commendable track record of research, with publications in reputable journals such as Heliyon, Open Agriculture, and ASUU Journal of Social Sciences. His research topics cover critical areas like climate change, food security, and agricultural efficiency, which are pivotal for sustainable development.
    • Notable publications include studies on the impact of credit use on rice farmers, climate change impacts, and economic performance of soybean production. His work has both academic and practical significance, addressing pressing agricultural issues.
  3. Professional Membership and Conference Participation:
    • He is an active member of professional bodies such as the Farm Management Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Economists.
    • Oluwaseun has presented papers at various national and international conferences, indicating his active engagement with the academic community and contribution to the dissemination of knowledge.
  4. Leadership and Service:
    • Oluwaseun has held several leadership roles during his academic career, such as Director General and General Secretary of the Agricultural Economics Students’ Association. His service as a Special Marshal with the Federal Road Safety Corps highlights his commitment to community service and leadership.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Impact Publications:
    • While Oluwaseun has published extensively, aiming for higher-impact journals could enhance the visibility and impact of his research. Collaborating with international researchers and submitting to top-tier journals can elevate his research profile.
  2. Grant Acquisition:
    • Securing research grants from prestigious funding agencies would provide additional resources for his research and validate the importance of his work. Focused efforts on grant applications and proposal writing can help achieve this goal.
  3. Collaborative Research:
    • Increasing collaborative efforts with researchers from diverse disciplines and international institutions could enrich his research output. Such collaborations can bring in varied perspectives and methodologies, leading to more comprehensive studies.
  4. Professional Development:
    • Engaging in further professional development activities, such as advanced workshops, training in emerging agricultural technologies, and participation in global research networks, would keep him abreast of the latest trends and enhance his research skills.

 

🎓 Education:

Solaja holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Landmark University (2024), an M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan (2016), and a B.Agric. in Agricultural Economics from Olabisi Onabanjo University (2010). His academic journey has equipped him with extensive knowledge and expertise in agricultural economics, particularly in enhancing farm household resilience and food security.

💼 Experience:

Solaja’s professional career spans over a decade, with roles ranging from teaching to commercial enforcement. He has been a Lecturer II at Landmark University since 2019, imparting knowledge and guiding students in Agricultural Economics. Prior to this, he worked as a Commercial Enforcement Officer at Mactay/Ikeja Electric and taught Agriculture and Economics at various schools, including Cornerstone Comprehensive College and Pat International College.

🔬 Research Interests:

Solaja’s research interests lie in agricultural economics, focusing on economic shocks, resilience, and food security of farm households in Nigeria. He is also interested in the efficiency of agricultural inputs, climate change impacts on agriculture, and the economic performance of smallholder farmers.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions:

Throughout his career, Solaja has been recognized for his contributions to agricultural economics and education. He is an active member of the Farm Management Association of Nigeria (since 2019) and the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Economist (since 2023), reflecting his commitment to professional development and excellence.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. Olagunju F.I, Afolabi, O.M., Solaja, S. O., Ayojimi W. (2020). “Effect of the Use of Credit on the Output and Technical Efficiency of Small–Scale Ofada Rice Farmers in Ijebu North East Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria.” ASUU Journal of Social Sciences, 7(1), pp. 54-77. Link to article
    Cited by articles on agricultural finance and efficiency.
  2. Okon, E. M., Falana, B. M., Solaja, S. O., Yakubu, S. O., Alabi, O. O., Okikiola, B. T., … & Edeme, A. B. (2021). “A systematic review of climate change impact research in Nigeria: implication for sustainable development.” Heliyon, 7(9), e07941. Link to article
    Cited by articles on climate change and sustainable agriculture.
  3. Oyenpemi L.O, Solaja S.O, Fadeyi B.O., Awe T. E., Ayojimi W., Etta-Oyong S.O., Okonta O.W., Oriade O.A. (2023). “Economic Performance of Smallholder Soya Beans Production in Kwara State, Nigeria.” Open Agriculture, 8(1), 20220100. Link to article

Conclusion:

Solaaja Sodipe Oluwaseun is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his solid academic background, extensive research contributions, active professional involvement, and leadership roles. His work in agricultural economics addresses critical issues relevant to food security, climate change, and agricultural productivity, demonstrating both academic rigor and practical relevance. By focusing on publishing in higher-impact journals, securing research grants, fostering international collaborations, and continuing professional development, Oluwaseun can further strengthen his candidacy and make even more significant contributions to the field of agricultural economics.

Shojaeddin Niroomand | Economic geology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Shojaeddin Niroomand | Economic geology | Best Researcher Award

Professor, University of Tehran, Iran

Assoc Prof Dr. Shojaeddin Niroomand, renowned for his expertise in Economic Geology, has been honored with the prestigious Best Researcher Award. Currently serving as a Professor at the University of Tehran, Iran, Dr. Niroomand’s contributions have significantly advanced the field. 🏆 His research endeavors encompass a wide range of topics within economic geology, exploring critical aspects of mineral resources and their geological settings. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, he continues to inspire both colleagues and students alike, driving innovation and excellence in geological research. Dr. Niroomand’s accolade underscores his outstanding achievements and enduring impact in the scientific community. 🌟

Profile

Education

🎓 Shojaeddin Niroomand holds a Ph.D. in Economic Geology from Shiraz University, earned in 2010. Prior to that, he completed his M.S. in Economic Geology at Tarbiat Modares University in 2000, and his B.S. in Geology at Bu-Ali Sina University in 1995. His academic journey reflects a dedication to understanding the geological processes underlying ore formation. 🌍

Experience

💼 As an Associate Professor, Shojaeddin Niroomand has amassed extensive experience in the field of economic geology. His career includes research, teaching, and mentoring roles, allowing him to contribute significantly to the understanding of mineral deposits. He has also supervised numerous students and collaborated with fellow researchers on various projects. Shojaeddin’s expertise and dedication have earned him respect within the academic community. ⛏️

Research Interests

🔬 Shojaeddin Niroomand’s research interests encompass a wide range of topics within economic geology, including ore deposit geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, and exploration techniques. He is particularly interested in understanding the geological, structural, and geochemical controls on ore formation, as well as the genesis of ore-bearing fluids. Shojaeddin’s research contributes to the development of effective exploration strategies and the sustainable management of mineral resources. 🌋

Awards

🏆 Shojaeddin Niroomand has been recognized for his significant contributions to the field of economic geology. His papers in international journals and presentations at conferences have received accolades and contributed to advancing knowledge in the field. Shojaeddin’s dedication to research and his commitment to excellence have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. His awards and achievements underscore his impact on the discipline. 🥇

📚 publications Top Notes

“The Kharapeh orogenic gold deposit: geological, structural, and geochemical controls on epizonal ore formation in West Azerbaijan Province, Northwestern Iran.” (2011)

“Mineralogy, fluid inclusions microthermometry, and the genesis of ore-bearing fluids in the west of Qaleh-Zari (Cu-Au-Ag mine) anomaly zone, Kudkan mineralization, Khorasan, Iran.” (2015)

“Geochemical characteristics of igneous rocks associated with Baghu gold deposit in the Neotethyan Torud-Chah Shirin segment, Northern Iran.” (2018)

“Mineralogy, geochemistry, and genesis of the Chahgaz (XIVA Anomaly) Kiruna-type iron oxide-apatite (IOA) deposit, Bafq district, Central Iran.” (2021)

“Detection of Alteration Zone with Multispectral ASTER Data in Ghabaghloujeh Gold Deposit (Kordestan, Iran).” (2021) 📝