ATBU VC Urges Biochemists To Challenge Outdated Scientific Assumptions

The Vice-Chancellor of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, Prof. Ibrahim Garba, has urged 230 newly inducted biochemists to challenge outdated scientific assumptions, question inefficient systems and deploy their knowledge to address societal challenges.

Garba gave the charge at the second induction and oath-taking ceremony of the Department of Biochemistry, where the graduates were inducted as graduate members of the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NSBMB).

He urged the inductees to become catalysts for positive change in their respective fields, including healthcare, industry, agriculture, technology and entrepreneurship.

He said: "As you step into the wider scientific world, hold fast to these enduring principles. Be the catalyst in every domain you enter, whether healthcare, industry, technology, agriculture, public policy or entrepreneurship.

"Remember that catalysts do not force reactions; they make them happen. Challenge inefficient systems, question outdated assumptions and lower the activation energy required for positive change."

The VC also advised the graduates to develop resilience, collaboration, professional integrity and a commitment to continuous learning.

In his keynote address titled "The Genomic Future of Africa: How African Biochemists Transform Disease Research, Drug Discovery and Global Health," Prof. Ishaya Yohana challenged the inductees to identify societal problems within their areas of specialisation and develop practical solutions.

The National President of NSBMB, Prof. O. M. Wegwu, represented by Vice-President, Mohammed Adamu Milala, commended ATBU for sustaining the induction programme. He disclosed that the society was making efforts to establish an Institute of Biochemistry in Nigeria, adding that the proposal had passed through the National Assembly and was awaiting presidential assent.