Professor calls for Improved Genetics Research for Upgrading Health outcomes

A Professor of Genetics/Molecular Biology and Public Health at the Institute of Child Health, University of Ibadan, Professor Olukemi Amodu, has emphasised the need to improve on the existing framework of genetics research in Nigeria through sustained multidisciplinary research.

Professor Amodu also called for the interplay of basic sciences, clinical sciences, epidemiology with molecular sciences, and epidemiology, with the ultimate goal of upgrading health outcomes in Nigeria.

She gave the recommendations while delivering the 566th Inaugural Lecture, and the 16th in the series of inaugural lectures for the 2023/2024 academic session of the University of Ibadan, entitled “My Genes are to Blame, or Not?!,” on behalf of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences.

Professor Amodu affirmed that it is only through such collective efforts that Nigeria can address the growing burden of diseases and pave the way for a healthier future, noting that even though there are advancements  in genome facilities, challenges still persist.

She identified limited medical genetics testing services, clinics, and genetic counsellors in Nigeria as some of the challenges, and recommended that there should be a concerted focus on improving genetics research in Nigeria.

The professor suggested that improving genetics research should entail fostering collaboration across various disciplines, securing local and international funding and government support, stressing 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.