- University of Ilorin Celebrates its First Female Computer Science Professor Delivering an Inaugural Lecture.
- Highlighting Cutting-Edge Technologies and Proactive Strategies Against Cyber Threats.
Professor Oluwakemi Abikoye Advocates AI and Biometric Solutions for Cybersecurity
In a momentous inaugural lecture titled “Invisible Bouncers in the World of Information Security,” Professor Oluwakemi Christiana Abikoye illuminated the pressing challenges and forward-looking solutions in information security. The lecture, delivered on Thursday at the University of Ilorin, marked the institution’s 270th inaugural lecture and established Professor Abikoye as the first female professor of Computer Science at the university to deliver an inaugural lecture.
Professor Abikoye’s presentation explored how unseen security mechanisms, akin to bouncers guarding exclusive venues, defend against cyber threats. She emphasized the importance of proactive measures, constant vigilance, and technological advancements to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets in an interconnected world.
Strategic Recommendations for Cybersecurity
The professor outlined practical solutions to address cybersecurity challenges:
- Routine Enhancements: Organizations should enforce password updates every three months and conduct regular training to combat social engineering attacks.
- Adoption of Advanced Technologies: Leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and behavioral analytics can improve real-time threat detection and risk mitigation.
- Incident Preparedness: Institutions must establish robust incident response plans and conduct frequent security audits.
- Biometric Innovations: The use of iris recognition and voice verification in programs like “Am Alive” was recommended to enhance identification processes.
Professor Abikoye also called for increased regulatory compliance, public awareness campaigns, and data governance to prevent privacy violations. She highlighted watermarking intellectual property to protect vital assets in sectors such as finance and healthcare.
Pioneering Contributions
Professor Abikoye’s achievements were celebrated during the lecture. She is the second professor to deliver an inaugural lecture from the Department of Computer Science and the fifth from the Faculty of Communication and Information Science.
Concluding her address, she highlighted the transformative role of AI-powered technologies in achieving autonomous cybersecurity responses, urging policymakers and organizations to adopt forward-thinking measures.
With the right frameworks and investments, she envisions a safer digital future, emphasizing that technology must remain a step ahead of evolving threats.
