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Psychology, Panacea for National Restructuring – Dr. Akintola, Head Psychology Dept., UNILAG

Published

7 years ago

September 22, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

She is among the very few who are at home wherever you meet them as regards their discipline. Her name is Dr. Esther Akintola, the Head, Department of Psychology, University of Lagos. In this brief chat, she explains the intricacies of psychology as a course of study as well as what it takes to bring up God fearing children worthy of leading the nation to the next level. Excerpts:

Can we meet you?

My name is Esther Foluke Akinsola, an Associate professor of Psychology and Acting Head of Psychology Department, University of Lagos.

Apart from psychology, what else is Dr. Akinsola known for?

Well, I am a Consultant developmental and Clinical psychologist and I do research and teachings in clinical and psychological matters. I have also addressed many family problems. These were families that were engrossed in challenges resulting from breakdown in adolescent communication. Often times, we do not tend to understand adolescents and where they are coming from and same with the adolescents, they do not understand their parents so it creates a problem. They want freedom, they desire freedom.

Want or deserve freedom?

No, not deserve. They want unreserved freedom but they do not want to take responsibilities for the actions they take. This is called psychological trauma and it is responsible for creating a gap in family communication.

So, what is being done to bridge this gap?

Friendship breeds communication and this is where most parents loose it. Majority or parents are not friends to their children and there is no way these adolescents would open up to you if friendship has not been established. And this is the kind of strategy I am bringing on board that you begin talking to your children even from the womb. It will flow naturally so as they grow up it doesn’t seem like a hard thing because you have cultivated the habit. They do not want orders or dictation and this is what parents are prone to do at that point.

These adolescents do a lot of thinking and the only panacea to the gap between them and their parent is communication.

How long have you been in the field of psychology that has made you so vast in it?

I started lecturing in psychology in 1981 in the University of Lagos. I graduated in 1976 with a Second Class Upper division. I was doing a lot of things together at that time. I got married as a student in 1974, graduated in 1976, just 3 weeks after I gave birth to my first child, so I was a mother, a wife and a student. To be candid, I never wanted to be a teacher but I think as destiny would have it, that is what I am. I did my A levels and you know then A levels were done in December and when I finished my A levels the first job I got was teaching.

How would you say psychology has impacted on the socioeconomic growth of the country?

Psychology is the study of human beings, the study of human behavior and as long as there are people in the society there is a need for psychology and since it is humans who control these sectors, psychology is important. So, psychology is important because it pays a huge role in policy making and development. I heard someone once say that there is no way the minimum wage given at #18,000 will stop corruption and you expect people not to steal.

So, policies must have a humane approach to them and even then you can make the work interesting for whoever is doing it. These are some of the things psychology seeks to teach.

Psychology also teaches financial management and stability which is key to any country’s growth.

Are you saying in essence that psychology is what the country needs?

Yes! Yes! Psychology of financial and human resources! I heard that family members of fighters against Boko Haram are given stipends when they die in sharp contrast to the members of Boko Haram who are paid millions. Some psychologists would even posit that it is beneficial to be a Boko Haram member than a soldier. I also heard that there are some places in the Niger area where they have not seen government presence and this Boko Haram comes along offering them food and money, you think if one was there, one wouldn’t be tempted to join the sect?

What advice do you have for many young people who are still indecisive on what course to study?

I have advice for them and their parents. The parents must let the children choose their career path. Gone are the days when parents decide for their children, saying my child must be a lawyer. The child should be motivated to follow his passion and support must come from the parents.

As for the children, discover early enough what you want to do. Just recently, a student came to me and said he wants to drop psychology and study Creative Arts, that this is where his passion is, and he is in his 300 level. I instructed him to at least finish the psychology first before thinking of changing. After all, these are the days that one can own more than one certificate.

Also, as much as parents enjoin their children to pursue their interests, they must keep close tab on them. The children must know that interest doesn’t mean friendship or peer group. It should not be because my friend is going to the sciences, I must follow him when in the real sense your strength is in the arts.

About two years ago, this department produced a straight 5.0 First class graduate. Is that the first time?

Yes and the first in the whole school.

So, what are you doing to maintain this feat?

I think it is more dependent on the student. The young man who had a 5.0 took a course of mine in his 200 level and I did not know him, at least not until his 5.0 feat. What I am saying is that I am sure the young man made up his mind when he entered the University to be studious and serious. In essence, it is dependent on the students. The lecturers are dedicated and committed to their success.

Is that why you retained the young man?

Yes, we want him to serve as an inspiration to others. He is still young and he understands the young people more than we can ever do.

On a final note, can you advice our parents?

Okay! There is something called positive child rearing and it should be the attitude every parent shows their children. Rather than say, you stupid child, look at what you have done you can say, look at the stupid thing you have done. In that sense, you have not condemned the actor and the action, just the action alone.

Again, as positive parenting goes, you cannot be smoking or drinking and you are telling your child not to. You must be a role model to him or her. We must all strive to become that kind of parent.

Thank you very much for your time.

Thank you.

Featured

Governor Adeleke Celebrates First Lady, Titilola Adebusola Adeleke @60

Published

7 hours ago

December 9, 2025

Eric

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has celebrated his wife, the First Lady, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adebusola Adeleke, as she marks her 60th birthday, describing her as “a pillar of support and a symbol of discipline and morality”.

In a birthday message he personally signed, the governor recalled with nostalgia how the bonding started and how the good Lord blessed the relationship with innumerable achievements and successes , noting that “ the first lady stands for all that a man wants in a woman as to discipline, self control, courtesy among others.

While praising her humility, respect for fellow human beings and capacity to manage people, the governor commended the first lady for her consistent perseverance, her passionate support for the family and her huge contributions to his development and progress in all facets of life.

“My dear wife, you have always been there for me in rough and good times. You are a strong pillar of support who strengthens me in all spheres of life. You remain a paragon of beauty, self control and discipline in your private and public conduct.

“Ever since we met, you have demonstrated your deep love and affection for me. And in the last few decades, your contributions to the family growth and successes cannot be under-estimated. Your day is therefore blessed as you are a blessing to countless beings on this earth.

“As you mark your day in good health and strong heart, I pray to the Almighty God to continue to strengthen, protect and prosper you in all your endeavours. Together, we have been winning. I know and pray that we shall continue to win together.

“As you clock 60 today, I pray for more wisdom and strength as you contribute your own quota to the development of the family and our dear state. You are an indispensable partner as we paddle the canoe of the state ship for good governance.

“My dear wife, I truly love you and I say happy blessed birthday”

Featured

Sunny Irakpo Launches SILEC International Magazine in America

Published

1 day ago

December 8, 2025

Eric

Drug Use Prevention Advocate, Founder and President of SILEC Initiatives, and U.S. Department of State Exchange Alumnus, Ambassador Sunny Irakpo, has unveiled SILEC International Magazine (SIM), a groundbreaking media platform exclusively dedicated to reporting drug-related issues across Africa, the United States, and the global community.

The announcement was made during a strategic meeting with partners in New Jersey, where Ambassador Irakpo is currently participating in a series of community-based and public-safety initiatives to deepen his expertise in combating substance use disorders and illicit drug trafficking both in the United States and worldwide.

A First-of-Its-Kind Platform for Drug-Focused Journalism

Ambassador Irakpo emphasized that SIM is designed to shape public consciousness by promoting value-driven storytelling and providing credible information on the rising tide of drug abuse and illicit trafficking—a crisis he describes as “a looming danger destroying the vibrant youth populations of many nations.”

He noted that the magazine will spotlight the work of NGOs, CEOs, advocates, and policymakers, churches, and companies with strong social responsibility particularly from African perspectives, while amplifying influential voices and advancing global understanding of effective anti-drug efforts.

Drawing inspiration from media leaders such as Dele Momodu, Chairman of Ovation Media Group, and Dr. John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Television, Irakpo described SIM as “a beacon of hope and a tool for societal transformation.”

Recognizing U.S. Efforts Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking

Ambassador Irakpo commended the United States for its continued commitment to combating drug trafficking and addiction—efforts strengthened under previous and current administrations. He particularly noted that the U.S. government under President Donald Trump demonstrated “exceptional courage, political will, and capacity in confronting the opioid crisis and the destructive forces fueling illicit drug trade,” encouraging world leaders to emulate such resolve.

He reiterated that addressing substance abuse requires a combination of drug-demand reduction, citizen sensitization, international collaboration, and sustained public education.

A Platform With Social Impact and Youth Empowerment at Its Core

Irakpo highlighted SIM as a top-tier media platform that will not only drive awareness but also create employment opportunities for young people and support underprivileged students—particularly in Nigeria, where more than 20 million children remain out of school due to financial hardship.

He added that SIM will serve as a sustainability engine for the ongoing anti-drug overdose campaigns of SILEC Initiatives, a leading nonprofit that has educated and sensitized communities for nearly two decades.

Experienced Editorial Leadership

As SIM prepares for its U.S. take-off, Irakpo announced the appointment of veteran journalist Julius Eto as Chairman of the Editorial Board. Eto brings more than four decades of experience across Nigeria’s premier news organizations, including The Guardian, ThisDay, The Punch, Daily Times, and The Trumpet.

He will be joined by distinguished academics including Prof. Oscar Odion Odiboh and other seasoned professionals committed to advancing the magazine’s mission.

A Call for Media Reawakening and Global Collaboration

Ambassador Irakpo called for a media renaissance in Nigeria to strengthen societal values and elevate African leadership in global discourse. SIM, he said, intends to claim its rightful place as “an African voice on the world stage.”

With the official launch of SILEC International Magazine (SIM) scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 in the United States, Ambassador Irakpo extended an invitation to corporate organizations, development partners, and well-meaning individuals worldwide to support this far-reaching vision.

“With hope, determination, and the resilience symbolized by the eagle, SIM is prepared to soar across the globe. Members of the public are respectfully enjoined to visit our friendly, rich anti-drug abuse website, www.silecinitiatives.org.ng,” he added.

Featured

How Tinubu Helped to Crush Military Coup in Benin Republic – Presidency

Published

1 day ago

December 8, 2025

Eric

The Presidency, on Sunday night, said acting on the two requests by the authorities of Benin Republic, President Bola Tinubu ordered Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to enter the country and take over the airspace to help dislodge the coup plotters from the National TV and a military camp where they had regrouped.

The Presidency, in a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said President Tinubu commended the swift response of the gallantry of Nigeria’s military.

The statement read: “President Bola Tinubu has commended the gallantry of Nigeria’s military on Sunday for responding swiftly to the request by the Government of Benin Republic to save its 35-year-old democracy from coup plotters who struck at dawn today.

“Acting on two separate requests from the Government of Benin, President Tinubu first ordered Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to enter the country and take over the airspace to help dislodge the coup plotters from the National TV and a military camp where they had regrouped.

“The Republic of Benin, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a Note Verbal, requested immediate Nigerian air support “in view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation and to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population.”

“In the second request, the authorities in Benin requested the deployment of Nigerian Air Force assets within Beninoise airspace for surveillance and rapid intervention operations under Benin-led coordination.

“The Benin government also requested Nigerian ground forces, “strictly for missions approved by the Beninese Command authority in support of the protection of constitutional institutions and the containment of armed Groups.”

“Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said all the requests have been fulfilled, with Nigerian ground forces now in Benin.

“Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu,” he said.

He further stated: “Constitutional order was upended in the Republic of Benin, Nigeria’s neighbour, when some soldiers led by Colonel Pascal Tigri announced a coup on Sunday morning. The putschists seized the National TV and claimed they had toppled President Patrice Talon and suspended all democratic institutions.

“It took some hours before the government’s loyal forces, assisted by Nigeria, took control and flushed out the coup plotters from the National TV.

“In his remarks after the restoration of the democratic and constitutional order, President Tinubu saluted the Nigerian armed forces for standing firm as a protector and defender of democracy.

“Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government. Our armed forces acted within the ambit of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

“They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin.”