Dr. Bamidele S. Ilugbusi: A Scholar Transforming Economic and Entrepreneurial Research

Dr. Bamidele S. Ilugbusi’s illustrious career at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, is a testament to his exceptional leadership and dedication to academic excellence. His roles extend far beyond teaching, encompassing vital administrative responsibilities and groundbreaking research that have significantly advanced the fields of finance, entrepreneurship, and economic development. Dr. Ilugbusi’s journey in academia began with […]

Dr. Bamidele S. Ilugbusi’s illustrious career at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, is a testament to his exceptional leadership and dedication to academic excellence. His roles extend far beyond teaching, encompassing vital administrative responsibilities and groundbreaking research that have significantly advanced the fields of finance, entrepreneurship, and economic development.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s journey in academia began with his impressive educational background. He earned his Ph.D. in Finance, M.Sc. in Finance, and B.Sc. in Economics from Afe Babalola University. His doctoral thesis on “Corporate Governance and Performance of Financial and Non-Financial Institutions Listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange” laid the foundation for his deep understanding of corporate finance and governance. This research has provided valuable insights into the dynamics of corporate governance practices and their impact on institutional performance, influencing both academic and practical approaches to financial management.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. Ilugbusi has made significant contributions as the Post Graduate Coordinator for the Business Administration Department at Afe Babalola University. In this role, he has provided comprehensive academic support to postgraduate students, ensuring they navigate their programs with clarity and purpose. His efforts in updating and developing postgraduate curricula to align with industry standards have ensured that the programs remain relevant and rigorous, thereby preparing students for successful careers in business and academia.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s administrative prowess is also evident in his role as the Acting Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship from April 2021 to January 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw student recruitment, admissions, and academic advising, significantly enhancing the department’s operations. His leadership in promoting and supporting faculty research activities has been instrumental in securing funding and resources, thereby fostering a robust research culture within the department. By encouraging faculty to publish in reputable journals, Dr. Ilugbusi has helped elevate the department’s academic standing and visibility in the academic community.

One of Dr. Ilugbusi’s notable contributions is his role as the Academic Coordinator of the ABUAD Bookshop. Since July 2021, he has managed the procurement of learning materials, coordinated special programs such as book fairs and exhibitions, and overseen the bookshop’s strategic planning and operations. His meticulous approach ensures that the bookshop not only meets the educational needs of students but also serves as a hub for intellectual engagement and resource availability. This role underscores his ability to bridge the gap between academic administration and student needs, creating a dynamic learning environment.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s leadership extends to his position as President of the Afe Babalola University Alumni Association, a role he has held since January 2020. Under his stewardship, the association has thrived, organizing engaging events and fostering strong connections among alumni. His leadership has enhanced the visibility and reputation of the university, promoting the achievements and contributions of alumni in various fields and industries globally. This role underscores his ability to bridge the gap between the academic institution and its broader community, creating a dynamic network of professionals and scholars.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s research interests are broad and impactful, covering corporate finance, entrepreneurship, and economic development. His extensive publication record includes numerous articles in prestigious journals. His research on the impact of risk management on the profitability of financial institutions has provided critical insights into how effective risk management practices can enhance financial stability and performance. Similarly, his work on the nexus between unemployment and economic growth in Nigeria offers valuable perspectives on addressing economic challenges through policy interventions and strategic planning.

Among Dr. Ilugbusi’s most cited works is “Financial Liberalization and Economic Growth in Nigeria (1986-2018),” published in the International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology. Cited 60 times, this paper explores the impact of financial liberalization on Nigeria’s economic growth, providing a comprehensive analysis of policy changes and their macroeconomic implications. Another significant work is “Impact of Internal Control on Fraud Prevention in Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria,” which examines how internal control mechanisms can effectively prevent fraud in Nigerian banks. This study, published in the Nigerian Studies in Economics and Management Sciences, has received 57 citations, highlighting its practical recommendations for enhancing financial security.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s research on “Entrepreneurship, Agricultural Value-Chain and Exports in Nigeria” has also garnered significant attention, with 54 citations. Published in the United International Journal for Research and Technology, this paper highlights the critical role of entrepreneurship and agricultural value chains in boosting Nigeria’s export potential. Similarly, his paper on “Energy Transition Policies: A Global Review of Shifts Towards Renewable Sources,” published in the Engineering Science & Technology Journal, reviews global energy transition policies and has been cited 33 times. This research discusses the shift towards renewable energy sources and the implications for sustainable development, offering a global perspective on energy policy.

In the realm of digital innovation, Dr. Ilugbusi’s work on “Evolving Tax Compliance in the Digital Era: A Comparative Analysis of AI-Driven Models and Blockchain Technology in US Tax Administration” has been highly influential. Published in the Computer Science & IT Research Journal and cited 25 times, this study explores the integration of AI and blockchain technology in tax administration, highlighting the potential for enhancing tax compliance and efficiency in the digital age. His paper on “Decentralized Finance (DeFi) in the US Economy: A Review,” which has garnered 17 citations, assesses the rise and challenges of blockchain-driven financial systems in the US. It provides a critical review of DeFi’s implications for the traditional financial landscape, contributing to the understanding of digital financial innovations.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s research on sustainable development includes his comprehensive review of “Redefining Agricultural Economics for Sustainable Development,” cited 16 times. This paper discusses the challenges and opportunities in agricultural economics, emphasizing sustainable development practices and offering strategic insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. His study on “Green Bonds in Climate Finance: A Review of USA and African Initiatives,” published in the International Journal of Science and Research Archive, has received 15 citations. It examines the role of green bonds in climate finance, comparing initiatives in the USA and Africa to provide a nuanced understanding of how green finance can support environmental sustainability.

His work on youth engagement in agriculture, specifically the paper titled “Determinants of Youth Engagement in Agribusiness: Implications for Sustainable Agricultural Practices in Southwest Nigeria,” has also been influential. With 12 citations, this research explores the factors influencing youth engagement in agribusiness, underscoring the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs in agriculture to achieve sustainable agricultural practices. Dr. Ilugbusi’s research on integrating blockchain technology into food supply chains, titled “Ensuring Global Food Safety,” has been cited 11 times. This paper, published in the Engineering Science & Technology Journal, discusses how blockchain technology can enhance food safety by improving traceability and transparency in food supply chains.

Another notable contribution is his paper on “Climate Change and Food Supply Chain Economics: A Comprehensive Analysis of Impacts, Adaptations, and Sustainability,” which provides a thorough analysis of how climate change affects food supply chains. Cited 11 times, this research offers strategies for adaptation and sustainability, highlighting the economic implications of environmental changes. His review on “International Climate Finance Mechanisms,” with a focus on Africa, has also been impactful, receiving 11 citations. This paper discusses how various climate finance mechanisms can be leveraged to support climate resilience and sustainable development on the continent.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s research on “Capital Structure and Financial Performance: Evidence from Listed Firms in the Oil and Gas Sector in Nigeria” is another significant work, cited 11 times. Published in the International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology, this study examines the relationship between capital structure and financial performance in the oil and gas sector, providing valuable insights for industry stakeholders. His paper on “Behavioral Economics in US Financial Literacy Programs,” cited 10 times, evaluates the role of psychology-driven strategies in enhancing financial literacy and responsible financial behaviors among US citizens.

Dr. Ilugbusi’s extensive and impactful research, coupled with his collaborative efforts with esteemed co-authors, has significantly advanced the fields of finance, economics, and entrepreneurship. His work continues to inspire and influence the academic community, providing valuable insights and practical solutions to contemporary economic challenges. His dedication to fostering a research-driven environment, developing innovative educational materials, and promoting inclusive economic development has made a lasting impact on academia and beyond. Dr. Ilugbusi’s achievements not only enhance the academic reputation of Afe Babalola University but also contribute to the broader discourse on economic development and educational excellence. His continued contributions are expected to drive further advancements in these fields, solidifying his position as a leading scholar and innovator.