Oluwadamilare Dauda, Osun-based student bags French award for River Blindness research

Oluwadamilare Dauda, a final-year PhD scholar at Osun State University, has been awarded the prestigious Young Scientist Award by the National Veterinary School of Toulouse, France, for his groundbreaking research on blackfly transmission of river blindness in southwest Nigeria.

The French Embassy in Nigeria, in a post via X, announced Oluwadamilare Dauda’s recognition, describing it as an acknowledgement of his contribution to infectious disease control through entomological research, the scientific study of insects.

“Meet @diamond_dre, a final-year PhD student at the Osun State University and recipient of the Young Scientist Award from the @env_toulouse a prestigious honour for emerging researchers from Low- and Middle-Income countries in the field of entomology,” the embassy stated.

The award, which recognises promising researchers from low- and middle-income countries, also offered Dauda the opportunity to attend a summer course in Toulouse, France, to deepen his expertise in disease vectors.

“Thanks to this award, Oluwadamilare attended a summer course in Toulouse, deepening his expertise on disease vectors alongside global experts. His research on blackfly transmission of onchocerciasis in SW Nigeria contributes to vital infectious disease control efforts,” the French Embassy added.

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The embassy also highlighted its role in facilitating Dauda’s participation. “The French Embassy was proud to facilitate his swift visa process part of our ongoing commitment to supporting academic excellence and scientific exchange between France and Nigeria. Félicitations, Oluwadamilare!”

Reacting to the recognition, Dauda expressed gratitude to his supporters. “Sincere thanks to @FranceInNigeria for spotlighting Nigerian academic excellence on the global stage,” he wrote via X. “I am grateful to Dr @EBouhsira, the summer school organiser, for this incredible opportunity. I am also grateful to @uniosune for giving me a platform to excel.”