Knowledge For Good: Gentleman Officer, DCP Akinbayo Olasoji Bags Academic PhD
By Oki Samson, Trek Africa Newspaper
One of Nigeria’s finest police officer noted for immense humanitarian activities and propagating the narrative of effective policing in the society, DCP Dr. Akinbayo Olasoji Olasunkanmi Aremu has earned his PhD in Economics after a rigorous academic research and developmental thesis from the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Trek Africa Newspaper can report.
He was honored with the highest academic degree at the Ekiti State University 29th Doctoral convocation ceremony which was held Friday, 28th and Saturday 29th March 2025 on the Main Auditorium, Iworoko Road, Ado Ekiti.
His thesis in development economics is themed ‘Economic Crimes, Poverty, and Economic Growth in Selected African Countries’. The thesis focuses on
the complex relationship between poverty which is prevalent in Africa and how it fuels or sustains economic crimes and vice versa. It also spotlights how economic growth can be attained when all governmental structures including the Police work hand-in-hand with the people.
Dr. Akinbayo Olasoji Olasunkanmi Aremu who is visibly elated at the celebration gave thanks to the Almighty God for giving him the grace and privilege to follow through on the rigorous academic journey despite his heavy schedule in the Nigeria Police Force. He also thanked his family and friends for giving him leverage during the journey.
Speaking to Trek Africa Newspaper at the occasion, Dr. Akinbayo Olasoji remarked: ‘It is been a long and rewarding journey on this pursuit of getting my PhD. I thank God for his immense Grace that I have enjoyed all through my life and moving forward. I also thank my family for giving me the needed support.’
‘I would especially want to thank the IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun for providing the enabling environment which is allowing Police officers to seek more knowledge and experience to make our policing careers better. He made us see by his own practical lifestyle that it is doable. I want to urge Nigerians and my fellow officers that knowledge acquisition never ends in whichever level we find ourselves.’
The egghead, DCP Akinbayo Olasoji is widely recognized for his ethical stance in law enforcement, particularly his rejection of substantial bribes in a landmark case, which led to his special promotion in 2017. His career is marked by integrity, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to upholding law and order, even in the face of personal risk. He has undergone extensive professional training both in Nigeria and internationally, covering areas such as humanitarian law, counterterrorism, and financial crime investigations.
His previous academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science (Ed) degree in Economics Education from Lagos State University, a Master of Science degree in Economics from Ekiti State University. He is also a Certified Private Investigator and Intelligence Analyst.
Notably, Dr. Olasoji has co-authored research studies that have been widely cited and referenced by other authors. For instance, his study “Impact of Exchange Rate Volatility on Economic Growth in Nigeria” (2019), co-authored with Adeyemi Paul Adeniyi, has been cited in several studies, including “Exchange Rate Volatility and Economic Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa” by Olawale and Oyinlola (2020), “The Effect of Exchange Rate Volatility on Foreign Direct Investment in Nigeria” by Adeniran and Folorunso (2022), and “Exchange Rate Volatility and Trade Balance in Nigeria” by Olokoyo and Oyedele (2022).
Additionally, his study “Economic Crimes and Economic Growth in Selected African Countries,” co-authored with Ogunleye E.O., has been cited and referenced by other authors in their research studies, including “The Impact of Economic Crimes on Economic Development in Nigeria” by Olamide et al. (2022), “Economic Crimes and Financial Development in Africa” by Akpan et al. (2022), and “The Relationship Between Economic Crimes and Poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa” by Adewale et al. (2022). In 2024, he authored the Economic Crimes, Poverty, and Economic Growth in selected African countries between 1990 and 2020.
Beyond his professional duties, he serves as a pastor at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, integrating his faith with his dedication to public service. His postings and leadership roles across Nigeria, from Lagos to Enugu, have significantly contributed to national security and economic development. His exemplary service has earned him widespread respect within and beyond the police force.
