Prof. Abiodun Mary Odukoya

Professor of the Department of Geosciences 

Personal Statement

I am a Professor of Environmental Geochemistry and Medical Geology with over two decades of experience in teaching, research, and community engagement. My work is driven by a deep commitment to understanding and addressing the intricate links between environmental contamination and public health, particularly in the context of urban geochemistry and mining activities. Through my research, I aim to develop science-based solutions that mitigate environmental and health risks, promote sustainable practices, and inform policy.

Passionate about mentoring the next generation, I take pride in supporting and inspiring young women in the geosciences, especially those from underrepresented communities. I believe that empowering women in science is crucial to achieving long-term sustainability and innovation.

As a dedicated advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), I am particularly aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). I am committed to being part of the global effort to realize the SDG 2030 Agenda through research, education, and impactful collaborations.

Professor Obashoro-John is a prolific scholar and public intellectual whose works include the books Caring for Older Persons (2007), Successful Retirement (2016), and her University of Lagos Inaugural Lecture, Programme Evaluation: Back to the Future (2013). Her international scholarship includes a co-authored chapter with Professor Brian Findsen of the University of Waikato, New Zealand, addressing lifelong learning for older adults, published in Adult Education and Social Justice: International Perspectives (Firenze University Press, 2023). She has also co-authored peer-reviewed articles in public health and community education. A sought-after speaker and facilitator, she has consistently championed the view that retirement represents an opportunity for renewal and purposeful living, describing it as “freedom into freedom.”

Education / Training

InstitutionDegreeCompletion DateField of Study
University of Ibadan, Oyo State, NigeriaB.Sc.Geology
University of Ibadan, Oyo State, NigeriaM.Sc.Mineral Exploration (Geochemistry Option)
University of Ibadan, Oyo State, NigeriaPh.D.Geology

Selected Most recent Publications/Contributions to knowledge

 

  • Akinwunmi, M.S., Odukoya, A.M, Oloruntola, M.O, Ander, E.L, Watts, M.J and Isaboke, J. (2026). Determination of Geochemical Baseline and Hydrogeochemical Characterisation of Groundwater in Lagos, Nigeria. Chemistry Africa. 9:87. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42250-025-01553-0.

 

  • Eboigbe, E.O., Veerasamy N, Odukoya, A.M,Anene, N.C, Sonke, J.E, Méndez, S.S and McLagan, D.S (2025). Mercury contamination in staple crops impacted by Artisanal Small-scale Gold Mining 2 (ASGM): Stable Hg isotopes demonstrate dominance of atmospheric uptake pathway for Hg in crops. https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1402 Preprint. Discussion started: 8 April 2025.

 

  • Odukoya, A.M,Uruowhe, B, Watts, M.J, Hamilton, E.M, Marriott, A.L, Alo, B and Anene, N.C (2022). Assessment of bioaccessibility and health risk of mercury within soil of artisanal gold mine sites, Niger, North-central part of Nigeria. Environ Geochem Health. 44:893–909 https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-021-00991-2

 

  • Odukoya, A.M,Akinwunmi, S.M and Watts, M.J (2021). Contamination and Hazard Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements in Road Dust Lagos, Southwest, Nigeria. Chemistry Africa 4 (2).

 

  • Sanyaolu, O.M, Mouri, H, Selinus, O and Odukoya, A.M (2021). Sources, Pathways, and Health Effects of Iodine in the Environment. In, Siegel, M, Selinus, O and Finkleman, R. (eds.), Practical Applications of Medical Geology, Springer Nature Switzerland AG. 561-613. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-53893-4_17
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