Abuja: The Nigerian Academy of Sciences (NAS) has welcomed six distinguished scientists as fellows of the Academy and inaugurated its Science Museum and Library for public access. The induction ceremony was coupled with a public lecture on ‘Redefining Cancer Care in the Era of Immunotherapy and Precision Oncology: Implications for Research, Treatment and Policy in Nigeria’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the newly inducted fellows are Prof. Martins Emeje, Director-General of the Nigerian Natural Medicines Development Agency, representing Pharmaceutical Technology and Industrial Pharmacy; Prof. Omotayo Arotiba and Prof. Emeka Oguzie, both from the field of Physical Chemistry; Prof. Festus Okoye, specializing in Natural Product Medicinal Chemistry; Prof. Olufunmilayo Fawole, from Epidemiology and Public Health; and Prof. Olukemi Amodu, with expertise in Genetics/Molecular Biology and Public Health.
NAS President, Prof. Abubakar Sambo, encouraged the new fellows to uphold the Academy’s mission of advancing scientific culture in Nigeria. He emphasized their role in advising authorities on adopting science and technology initiatives, particularly in education. The President also mentioned that the museum has started showcasing historical items on science and technology development, with plans to expand its collection.
Prof. Martins Emeje expressed his commitment to using his induction as a platform to enhance scientific rigor and delivery in Nigeria’s health research sector. He recognized the honor as a challenge to further contribute to the nation’s scientific development.
Prof. Festus Okoye highlighted the importance of linking research to commercialization, emphasizing the need for collaboration between academia and industry to solve real-world problems. He stressed the relevance of engaging industries to ensure researchers address industrial challenges.
During the public lecture, Prof. Kunle Odunsi from the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center pointed out the fragmented nature of cancer care in Nigeria. He advocated for the establishment of a Cancer Registry and support for the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment to enhance cancer screening and research infrastructure.
Prof. Isaac Adeyemi, Chairman of the NAS Museum Committee, outlined the museum’s role in making science appealing to all ages. The museum features scientific, historical, and artistic collections, while the library offers a comprehensive repository of research materials accessible both in-house and remotely.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the museum and library, located in Wada District Cadastral Zone, Apo, FCT, were commissioned by retired Gen. Theophilus Danjuma in January 2025.