UNILAG Advances Multidisciplinary Knowledge with New Molecular Biology Labs
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has inaugurated its Molecular Biology Laboratory and Next Generation Sequencing Platform, aiming to enhance multidisciplinary research and contribute to national development.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is set to enhance its research capabilities and contribute significantly to national development with the inauguration of its Molecular Biology Laboratory and the Next Generation Sequencing Platform. This initiative, spearheaded by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, aims to advance knowledge across various disciplines.
Prof. Ogunsola expressed her enthusiasm about the new facilities, highlighting the importance of consolidating expensive laboratory equipment in centralized locations for better accessibility and efficiency. She acknowledged Dr. D. K. Olukoya's generous donation of the building housing the 'D.K. Olukoya Central Research and Reference Laboratories,' which has been instrumental in realizing this vision.
Despite the progress, Prof. Ogunsola pointed out the ongoing challenge of maintaining a constant power supply, crucial for the optimal functioning of the laboratories. She assured that the university is committed to maintaining and running the equipment effectively, thanks in part to support from TETFund and international agreements.
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Prof. Ogunsola emphasized the strategic importance of having sophisticated equipment in one place and the need for skilled manpower to utilize these resources. She underlined the impact of these laboratories on learning outcomes and national development, focusing on solving societal challenges through advanced research in human health, the environment, and beyond.
Prof. Wellington Oyibo, Director of the Central Research Laboratory, highlighted that the new facilities enable UNILAG to conduct advanced genomic research domestically, positioning the university among leading institutions worldwide. He stressed the importance of such platforms during critical times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, and their role in placing Nigeria in a competitive global space.
The new laboratories offer opportunities for extensive research and collaborations on genomic platforms, benefiting not only Nigeria but also the international scientific community. Prof. Oyibo also noted that UNILAG faculty members will now be better equipped to train across disciplines, addressing genetic questions in medicine and other fields.
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The inauguration of these laboratories marks a significant milestone for UNILAG, reinforcing its commitment to advancing multidisciplinary knowledge and contributing to both national and global scientific progress.
