Prof Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye

Prof Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye (born 1940) is a Nigerian geophysicist. She is the first female physics professor in Africa and her work in geophysics has played an important role in mining in Nigeria.

Ajakaiye became the first female professor of physics in Africa in 1980. She has taught at Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Jos, serving as the dean of natural sciences at the latter. Her work with geovisualization has been used to locate both mineral deposits and groundwater in Nigeria. She has also created a map of the topography of Nigeria, working with several of her female students.[1] Ajakaiye stated that many male scientists had changed their perception of women scientists after interacting with her and her students.

Ajakaiye has been recognized for both her scientific advancements and her aid to the nation of Nigeria. The Nigerian Mining and GeoSciences Society honored her for her work, making her the first woman to receive the award. She was also the first black African to be named a fellow of the Geological Society of London.