TBRC, University of Jos join forces to boost phytomedicine in Nigeria
In a significant development set to revolutionize phytomedicine in Nigeria, the Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC) and the University of Jos have forged a promising partnership. The historic signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place at the University of Jos on Monday, August 28, 2023.
The momentous occasion brought together prominent figures from both institutions, who witnessed the formal signing with great anticipation. The event commenced with warm introductions by representatives from the TBRC and the University of Jos, fostering an optimistic atmosphere for collaboration.
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In his remarks, His Excellency Lieutenant General Buratai (rtd) CFR, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for TBRC, emphasized the overarching goal of societal value addition.
He underscored the significance of partnering with esteemed institutions like the University of Jos, recognizing this joint venture as a crucial step toward realizing their shared vision. General Buratai expressed gratitude for the opportunity and invited research proposals from the university, promising full support.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private sector and academia in driving national development, acknowledging that the MoU signing symbolizes this partnership.
In response, Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, warmly welcomed all attendees to the university. He commended General Buratai for his visionary approach in establishing TBRC and stressed the importance of research in addressing real-world challenges.
He specifically mentioned the need for a snake antivenom due to the increasing presence of snakes in certain regions of Plateau State, Bauchi State, and other parts of Nigeria.
The highlight of the ceremony was the formal signing of the MoU, officially marking the commencement of the partnership. This significant step was followed by the exchange of souvenirs, signing the visitors’ book, and capturing memorable group photographs.
The collaboration between TBRC and the University of Jos goes beyond symbolic gestures. The visiting delegation had the opportunity to explore the Africa Centre of Excellence in Phytomedicine Research and Development (ACEPRD) at the university, a project supported by the World Bank. Professor Goni Abraham Dogo, the Director of the Centre, provided insights into the state-of-the-art facilities and ongoing initiatives, including a molecular laboratory, the development of antiviral tea, a mushroom farm, and the Covip plus vaccine.
An groundbreaking aspect of this partnership is the proposed local production of venom for antiserum, focusing on achieving self-sufficiency in the pharmaceutical field in Nigeria. With the signing of the MoU between TBRC and the University of Jos, Nigeria is poised to witness incredible discoveries and groundbreaking solutions that will greatly benefit society.
Among the attendees were faculty members and management staff of the University, as well as Professor Jibrin Hussaini, a member of the TBRC Board of Trustees, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni, Secretary of the TBRC BOT, and Mr. Ralph Madu Uwechie, TBRC’s Legal Adviser.
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