UNICROSS host dons, scientists, researchers in microbiology confab designed to drive bio-economy
About 500 stakeholders including professors, researchers and technocrats on Tuesday assembled at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSSS) to explore the potential of microbiology to drive national development.
The conference was aimed to promote research and education in microbiology as well as exploring ways to harness microbiology for national development.
Prof. Saleh Ado, Acting National President of the Nigeria Society for Microbiology, highlighted the conference’s significance, stating that its outcome would have a substantial impact on Nigeria’s economic development.
The conference focused on recent advancements in microbial technologies to identify approaches for sustainable agriculture and food security.
The Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Prof. Felix Akubuenyi, emphasized the potential of microbiology to drive enterprise and economic growth. He encouraged participants to explore innovative ideas, such as, microbial waste management, to turn waste degraders into profitable recycling ventures.
Others include biofertilizer technologies to empower smallholder farmers with sustainable agricultural practices, pharmaceutical innovations, leveraging Nigeria’s biodiversity to develop new medicines.
Akubuenyi described the conference as a platform for innovation, collaboration, organized by the body to translate science into solutions.
He urged participants to chart a pathway that would position microbiology as a driver of health, wealth, and national prosperity, ultimately leading Nigeria into a bio-driven economy.
Vice Chancellor of UNICROSSS Prof. Francisca Bassey, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Thomas Ojikpong, assured participants of the institution’s willingness to do everything within its reach to ensure that deliberations at the conference get to policy makers for adaptation and implementation.
By: Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)
