A Professor of Genetics/Molecular Biology and Public Health at the Institute of Child Health, Professor Olukemi Kehinde Amodu, has spoken on the great need to improve on the existing framework of genetics research in Nigeria through sustained multidisciplinary research.
She called for the interplay of basic sciences, clinical sciences, epidemiology with molecular sciences, and epidemiology with the ultimate goal of improving health outcomes in Nigeria.
She gave the recommendations while delivering
the 566th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ibadan on behalf of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences.
The lecture was entitled: “My Genes Are To Blame, Or Not?”
It was the 16th in the series of inaugural lectures for the 2023/2024 academic session.
Professor Amodu said that it is only through such collective efforts that Nigeria could address the growing burden of diseases and pave the way for a healthier future.
She noted that though there are advancements in genome facilities, challenges still persist.
She identified limited medical genetics testing services, clinics, and genetic counsellors in Nigeria.
The inaugural lecturer therefore recommended that there should be a concerted focus on improving genetics research in Nigeria.
She suggested that this should entail fostering collaboration across various disciplines, securing local and international funding and government support.
She stressed the need for the Nigerian government to invest more in genetics research by providing funds.
She also called for an effective interface among the academia, industry, society, and government, as espoused by the quadruple helix model.
Professor Amodu urged universities to set up innovation hubs for knowledge production, science and technology, and social innovations for direct impact.
