How Nigerian Scholar, Adeyinka Olusanya is advancing sustainable water, energy solutions across continents

Oklahoma State University researcher, Adeyinka Olusanya has been identified as one of the exceptional Nigerian scholars that are making waves in environmental science

His contribution focuses on addressing one of leading global challenges —the intersection of water, energy, and food systems.

Adeyinka’s work is shedding light on how resource-intensive industries like hydraulic fracturing (fracking) are influencing water availability in agriculture-heavy, drought-prone regions of the United States.

Currently working as a research assistant at the Ecosensing lab Oklahoma State University, Adeyinka has centered his research on the Southern Great Plains, where groundwater plays a vital role in both food production and energy extraction. Through sophisticated geospatial analysis and remote sensing, he has been investigating how fracking operations in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas are straining the same underground aquifers that farmers rely on for irrigation and livestock.

Using data from NASA’s GRACE satellite mission, Adeyinka monitors groundwater fluctuations over time and maps areas of overlapping stress between fracking and agriculture. To quantify water demand, he also applies crop water productivity models, evaluating how efficiently crops use water and the extent to which fracking may be intensifying local water scarcity.

“My work aims to provide evidence that can inform better decision-making,” Adeyinka explains. “Energy and agriculture are both economic cornerstones, but we must find a way to secure water resources for the long term.”

In Nigeria, Adeyinka was involved in environmental initiatives in Nigeria, including a World Bank-supported watershed management project. His experience in regional development and environmental contracting shaped his commitment to water conservation and laid the groundwork for his current academic pursuits.

Adeyinka’s research will expand to include sustainable energy transitions and integrated water governance. His goal is to develop scalable solutions that bridge the needs of both developed and developing nations.

“Efficient water management is not just a local concern—it’s a global priority,” he says. “From Nigeria to the U.S., we need science-driven approaches that support both energy access and food security.”

With his growing expertise and global perspective, Adeyinka is contributing meaningfully to the broader dialogue on sustainability. His research not only deepens scientific understanding of resource conflicts but also equips policymakers with the insights needed to protect ecosystems while meeting human needs.