The Vice Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), Professor Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba, has praised the practical, life-driven approach adopted by Professor Ignatius Nkonyeasua Njoseh in delivering the university’s 118th inaugural lecture, describing it as insightful, inspiring and refreshingly relatable.
Professor Asagba gave the commendation on Thursday at the 750 Lecture Theatre A, Site III, where he noted that the inaugural lecturer successfully demystified mathematics by translating complex theories into simple, everyday experiences.
He singled out Professor Njoseh’s creative use of the kitchen as a metaphor for mathematical problem-solving, saying it clearly demonstrated that mathematics is not abstract or distant, but deeply embedded in daily life.
“The use of kitchen processes to explain mathematical theorems shows the true practicality of mathematics,” the Vice Chancellor said, applauding the lecture as excellent and intellectually stimulating.
Delivering his lecture titled “Finding ‘X’ Amid the Problems in My Kitchen: My Career as a Numerical Analyst,” Professor Njoseh traced humanity’s long-standing quest for the unknown, noting that while mathematics did not create uncertainty, it gave it language, structure and solutions.
He described the kitchen as a laboratory of life—a space filled with approximations, uncertainties, processes and decisions—arguing that the same principles used in numerical analysis apply to real-life challenges.
According to him, activities such as cooking, budgeting, travelling and planning all involve approximation, convergence and optimisation, the very foundations of numerical analysis.
“Finding ‘x’ depends on using the right method,” he said, stressing that life’s challenges are solvable when approached correctly, just like mathematical problems.
Professor Njoseh further highlighted the relevance of numerical analysis across engineering, medicine, economics, climate science and everyday living, underscoring its role as a tool in service to humanity.
At the event’s climax, the Vice Chancellor formally decorated Professor Njoseh with the prestigious DELSU inaugural lecturers’ medal, amid applause from a packed audience.
Other highlights included a special musical performance by the Department of Music, photo sessions with university principal officers, family and friends, as well as a cocktail reception hosted by the Vice Chancellor. A separate reception was also organised by the inaugural lecturer for invited guests.
The lecture attracted a distinguished audience, including members of the Governing Council, principal officers of the university, traditional rulers, academics, clergy, students, and top government functionaries, among them the Chairman of the DELSU Governing Council, General Alexander Ogomudia (Rtd), and the Obi of Owa Kingdom, HRM Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor II.
