Taiwo Rufus Ajayi, a native of Igbara-oke, is a retired Professor of Geology from the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. He is a member, Fellow and former Vice-President of the Nigerian Mining &Geosciences Society (NMGS), an active member and Fellow of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) and a COMEG registered Geoscientist. In 2016 and in recognition of his contributions to the Basement Complex geology of Nigeria, Prof Ajayi was the recipient of the distinguished NMGS/AMNI PETROLEUM/PROF M.O. OYAWOYE award instituted in honor of Prof M.O.Oyawoye, FNMGS, the first African Professor of Geology and a renowned Pathologist.
Prof. Ajayi has a wide experience in university administration, having served as Head, Department of Geology (Aug.1994-July 1097); Senate member representing Faculty of Science (1993-1996). He also served as a member of the University Governing Council, representing the University Senate between Oct 2003 –Oct.2007. Prof Ajayi also served as the Deputy Provost of the Postgraduate College (2001/2002 and 2002/2003 Academic sessions and was elected Provost of the College and served for four years, a period that witnessed landmark, innovative and milestone achievements in the administration of postgraduate studies in OAU.
Prof Ajayi was appointed a visiting professor in the department of Geological Sciences, Osun State University in Jan. 2011 and the pioneer Acting Provost, Postgraduate College in January 2012 and served in this capacity until 30th June 2013. He is currently on a contract appointment as a Professor of Geology, department of Geological Sciences, Osun State University. Prof Ajayi is widely travelled and attended many local and international conferences. He had also served on many Geosciences related National committees. He is very passionate about the progress and development of his hometown, Igbara-Oke. He is happily married to Feyisara Ebunolu and the marriage is blessed with loving children and grandchildren.
