As part of efforts aimed at making the nation’s research initiatives globally competitive, Prof. Adesoji Ademuyiwa of the Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), has disclosed that the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Research Centre (KAARC) will generate implementable knowledge across the spectrum of communicable and non-communicable diseases in the country.
This, he said, would be achieved through cutting-edge human and animal research.
Ademuyiwa, who spoke with journalists in Lagos yesterday, noted that Adebutu had not only funded the infrastructure of the multi-billion-naira project but is also providing supporting equipment to ensure sustainability and impact.
He said: “The smart building will attract scholars from all over the world. The research that will emerge from the facility will promote Nigeria’s position on the global map.”
The returns on investment will be massive in terms of translation to improved health outcomes and indices.
“We are pacesetters at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos. This project demonstrates the commitment of CMUL to excellence — both in research and in the outcomes of that research.”
In a similar vein, the College Secretary and Director of Administration, Dr Olayinka Obafemi-Moses, disclosed that the facility was birthed through the influence and collaborative efforts of notable alumni, adding that the Centre is a multi-dimensional research hub comprising seminar rooms and laboratories where research trainees can also gain hands-on experience.
He gave the assurance that “the management has established a team of experts to oversee the facility and ensure maintenance of standards, adding: “We are in the business of transacting in knowledge. The Centre will enable us to generate new information about several health issues affecting Nigerians. We must generate knowledge through research, teach that knowledge, and enable students to learn. We are grateful to Sir Kesington Adebutu for his generosity. This will expand staff capacity to train more students and address the ‘japa’ syndrome. The facility also supports environmentally friendly renewable energy, and researchers can engage remotely.”
On his part, Prof. Ahmed Oloyo of the Department of Physiology stated: “Students and staff are all excited about the facility. It’s a big project with a multiplier effect. It will promote the position of the University of Lagos as a frontrunner, enhance teaching and learning, and generate a lot of sustainable, fundable future research.”
In conclusion, Ademuyiwa revealed that the facility will be commissioned on Monday, October 20, 2025, in commemoration of the 90th birthday anniversary of Adebutu.
