Don advocates precision science research in Nigeria

A Professor of Zoology at the University of Ibadan, Alexander Odaibo, has urged the government at all levels to invest in the advancement of precision science research as part of measures to achieve the objectives of the National Health Promotion Policy.

Odaibo, who disclosed that Nigerian scientists were the best in the world, described the challenges facing health institutions in Nigeria as man-made, stressing that they can be unmade by man with genuine commitment at all levels.

The zoologist stated this during the 2nd conference of the Faculty of Science of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) in Ondo City, Ondo State, with the theme “Bridging Scientific Research and Healthcare: Exploring Emerging Trends.”

Odaibo, who was represented by Professor Mobolanle Oniya from the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), spoke on “The Future of Precision Science: Integrating Multidisciplinary Research for Tailored Healthcare Solutions”.

He said Nigeria was not exempted from the inefficient system of healthcare practices with a population of over 200 million people.

According to him, “Our role as scientists is a challenge to use our knowledge and skills to ameliorate these living and life conditions because health is life.

“The current trend in research is multidisciplinary collaboration as opposed to sole investigation, and thus the reflection of the theme is apt with the modern trend.

“On its part, the Nigeria Federal Ministry of Health’s National Health Promotion Policy indicates that ‘Health Promotion is an effective tool for galvanising individual and collective health actions aimed at preventing diseases, improving the health and wellbeing of the populace, as well as ensuring a healthier society for all.

“The prospect of precision science in health care solutions is mammoth, and as such, our research must be need-driven to attend to these emerging challenges as well as the resident ones.”

The don, who advised the colleges of medicine and allied health sciences to create special research centres in precision science with clear goals on the health solutions being researched, said “these should be in partnership with other global health initiatives enlisting integrative data analyses and sharing.”

On his part, the Vice Chancellor of UNIMED, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi, stated that the conference would serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaborations, and inspiring new ideas.

Fatusi, who spoke through the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. Roseangela Nwuba, said, “This theme resonates deeply with our mission to enhance health outcomes through innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration. It also reminds us of the critical role that scientific research plays in addressing the complex challenges our communities face.

“From the advancements in medical technology to the breakthroughs in disease prevention and treatment, the synergy between scientific inquiry and practical application is more vital than ever.”

On his part, the Chairman, Conference Organising Committee, Dr. Olorunjuwon Bello, maintained that the outcomes of the conference will contribute to the advancement of science and healthcare.

The Dean, Faculty of Science, Prof. Mojisola Nkiko, said, “As we navigate a rapidly changing scientific scholarship and healthcare ecosystem, it is essential that we not only adapt but also innovate in shaping our academic community.

“Together, we can explore new methodologies, embrace technological advancements, and foster inclusive environments that enhance multidisciplinary research initiatives as we mainstream into global best practices.”