By Shalom Obisesan
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun (FUHSI), Prof. Akeem Olawale Lasisi, has hailed the scholarly depth, leadership, and intellectual contributions of Prof. Simiat Olanike Jimoh as she delivered the institution’s maiden inaugural lecture.
Prof. Lasisi made the commendation during the lecture titled “Fermenting the Future: Harnessing Microbial Metabolism for Sustainable Biotechnological Innovations”, delivered by Prof. Jimoh of the Department of Microbiology at the university pavilion.
Describing the lecture as central to research advancement and societal development, the Vice Chancellor said inaugural lectures are defining moments in the career of academics, bridging scholarship with real-world impact.
“This is a moment of fulfilment. The inaugural lecture recognises years of dedication to research, scholarship, and service. More importantly, it is a platform for public enlightenment where knowledge is shared and future directions for both academic advancement and societal development are outlined,” he said.
He described the lecture as insightful and inspiring, commending Prof. Jimoh as an accomplished scholar and administrator whose contributions, particularly as Director of Academic Planning, reflect exceptional competence and leadership.
Delivering the lecture, Prof. Jimoh warned that Nigeria’s continued dependence on imported pharmaceuticals, polymers, and bio-based chemicals is placing unsustainable pressure on the nation’s foreign reserves.
“Persistent importation of essential products has weakened Nigeria’s industrial base and fuelled continuous foreign exchange outflows, undermining long-term economic stability,” she said. “Nigeria is richly endowed with agricultural residues and diverse indigenous microbial resources that can be harnessed to produce high-value products locally. With deliberate investment, we can significantly reduce import dependence and ease pressure on foreign reserves.”
She explained that microbial biotechnology offers pathways for converting agro-waste into industrial inputs, including pharmaceutical compounds, biofuels, and biodegradable materials, promoting sustainability and a circular economy.
“Strengthening local production capacity will conserve foreign exchange, create employment, stimulate innovation, and reposition Nigeria’s manufacturing sector for global competitiveness,” Prof. Jimoh said.
Highlighting a broader African paradox, she noted that many nations possess abundant natural resources yet remain heavily reliant on imports. She urged governments to adopt policies that promote research, innovation, and the industrial application of biotechnology.
Prof. Jimoh also called for increased funding for research institutions, capacity building for scientists, and stronger academia-industry collaboration to translate scientific discoveries into commercially viable solutions.
She emphasised the need for deliberate government interventions, including incentives for local manufacturers and investment in modern infrastructure, to drive the growth of a bio-based economy.
“Reducing dependence on imported pharmaceuticals is critical not only for economic resilience but also for national health security. Local production will guarantee more reliable access to essential medicines. Nations that fail to invest in knowledge-driven production risk remaining perpetually dependent in a rapidly evolving global economy,” she warned.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Monsuru Adeleke; the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; Prof. Rashid Aderinloye; and other members of the academic community.
