In a groundbreaking move that promises to revolutionize phytomedicine in Nigeria, the Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC) and the University of Jos (UNIJOS) have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Phytomedicine is generally known as herbal medicine with therapeutic and healing properties.
The eagerly awaited signing ceremony which took place at the University of Jos on Monday, August 28, 2023, saw the convergence of key figures from both institutions.
Speaking at the event, former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) for TBRC, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (rtd), emphasised on the overarching goal of societal value addition.
General Buratai also expressed the importance of collaboration with esteemed institutions such as University of Jos, hailing the joint venture as a step towards realizing this vision especially on phytomedicine.
He extended his appreciation for the opportunity and called for proposals from the university for research in specific areas, promising his total commitment to realising the goals of the MOU.
He also noted the importance of collaboration between the private sector and the academia for enhanced national development, which he said the signing of the MoU signifies.
Responding, Professor Tanko Ishaya, the Vice Chancellor, University of Jos, while welcoming all present to the University of Jos, lauded the visionary approach of General Buratai in establishing TBRC.
Professor Ishaya underscored the importance of research in solving real-world challenges, referencing the need for a snake antidote in the region due to the proliferation of snakes in certain areas of Plateau State, Bauchi State and other parts of Nigeria.
The highlight of the event was the formal signing of the MoU, symbolizing the official commencement of the partnership. This was followed by an exchange of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ book, and celebratory group photographs, all captured as lasting memories of the milestone.
The collaboration extends beyond mere signatures on paper. The visiting delegation had the opportunity to explore the Africa Centre of Excellence in Phytomedicine Research and Development (ACEPRD) at the University of Jos, a project supported by the World Bank. The Director of the Centre, Professor Goni Abraham Dogo, provided insights into the cutting-edge facilities and ongoing initiatives, including a molecular laboratory, the development of antiviral tea, a mushroom farm, and the Covip plus vaccine.
A groundbreaking aspect of the partnership involves the proposed local production of venom for antiserum, emphasizing on self-sufficiency in the pharmaceutical field in Nigeria.
As the MoU between TBRC and the University of Jos sets the stage for a new era of advancement in phytomedicine, Nigeria stands poised to witness groundbreaking discoveries and solutions that will benefit society.
Present at the occasion were some faculty members and management staff of the University, including Professor Jibrin Hussaini, a member of the TBRC Board of Trueness, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni, Secretary of the TBRC BOT and Mr Ralph Madu Uwechie, TBRC’s Legal Adviser.
