University of Ibadan VC Calls for Global Research Engagement

At the 4th Nigerian Society for Pharmacological Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics (NISPET) Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting held at the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Juwon Arotiba, stated that Nigeria must transition from merely consuming scientific knowledge to becoming an equal partner in global research. He urged Nigerian pharmacologists to engage more in international research consortia and contribute to scientific databases.

Adebowale identified significant health challenges, including emerging infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance, which require collaborative efforts among researchers, universities, and healthcare institutions. He noted the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications as a major barrier to drug development and called for enhanced expertise in regulatory science.

The University of Ibadan is investing in research infrastructure and partnerships to translate findings into health products. Prof. Omoniyi Yemitan, President of NISPET, echoed the need for Africa to strengthen its drug discovery and regulatory capacity.