Prof. Otuechere Advocates Two Biomedical Centres Per Geopolitical Zone at 25th Inaugural Lecture of Redeemer’s University

A Professor of Phytomedicine and Biochemical Toxicology at Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Prof. Chiagoziem Anaruochi Otuechere, has called for the establishment of two well-equipped Centres of Excellence in Biomedical Research in each of the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.

Prof. Otuechere made the recommendation while delivering the university’s 25th Inaugural Lecture titled, “Nature, Nanomedicine and Numbers: The Salubrious Odyssey of a Toxicologist”, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

He said the centres, if established, would help bridge the gap in biomedical research and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign facilities for advanced medical investigations.

The professor also called for a presidential mandate to empower biomedical researchers of proven pedigree, noting that adequate funding and political will are critical to driving innovation in the health sector.

He further advocated that transdisciplinary research be encouraged at all levels, stressing that collaboration among scientists from different fields remains key to solving complex health challenges.

According to him, investment in biomedical research is an investment in national development and health security.

“First, I recommend the establishment of two well-equipped Centres of Excellence in Biomedical Research in each of the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. These centres should be furnished with state-of-the-art equipment, with structured, all year-round access for scientists across biomedical disciplines,” he said.

“Second, there should be a presidential mandate to empower biomedical researchers of proven pedigree. Such a mandate must be backed by sustainable funding and clear accountability frameworks. These researchers should be tasked with developing solutions that draw upon indigenous knowledge systems. This approach will not only valorize Nigeria’s rich ethnopharmacological heritage but also ensure that solutions are culturally relevant and economically viable,” he added.

Voice Air Media reports that Redeemer’s University commenced its inaugural lecture series in 2013.