Nigerian research archaeologist Bidemi Babalola, based at the British Museum in London, has made history as the second Nigerian to receive the prestigious $300,000 Dan David Prize, awarded in Italy on May 28. The prize recognizes exceptional contributions to historical research. Babalola was honored for his groundbreaking discovery demonstrating that ancient African societies independently developed sophisticated glassmaking technologies, challenging previous beliefs that such craft was imported. His excavations in Ile-Ife, Osun State, and extensive research over two decades provided evidence that rewrites narratives about Africa’s technological history. This achievement follows a year after fellow Nigerian scholar Professor Saheed Aderinto received the same award, and both are alumni of the University of Ibadan, highlighting Nigeria’s growing legacy in global humanities scholarship. Babalola’s work significantly advances African historical understanding and underscores the continent’s capacity for world-class research.