UNILAG Professor Advocates for Increased Awareness of Medicinal Plants
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
During a retirement ceremony honoring Professor Joy Okpuzor, a renowned professor of Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Lagos, Nigerian Professor of Pharmacognosy, Prof. Maurice Iwu, emphasized the need for heightened awareness regarding the utilization of medicinal plants in Nigeria. Speaking at the event, Iwu delivered a keynote address titled "Beyond Lifespan: The Use of Rasayanas in the Treatment of Ageing and Age-related Diseases," where he underscored Nigeria's potential for exporting indigenous medicinal plants to global markets.
Iwu highlighted the significance of embracing Nigeria's rich biodiversity, emphasizing the potential for exporting processed or finished medicinal plant products to international markets. He stressed that many indigenous plants possess therapeutic properties suitable for treating various chronic ailments, including hypertension and diabetes. For instance, he pointed out the health benefits of simple remedies like zobo for individuals with high blood pressure, contrasting them with sophisticated imported medicines.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, affirmed the university's commitment to research on medicinal plants, particularly through initiatives such as a World Bank-sponsored research center focusing on traditional medicines. Ogunsola emphasized the importance of verifying and validating traditional medicines to harness their therapeutic potential effectively.
During the ceremony, Prof. Joy Okpuzor was lauded for her dedicated service as a lecturer at UNILAG. Describing her as a committed educator, Ogunsola expressed gratitude for Okpuzor's impactful contributions to the academic community. Former VC of UNILAG, Prof. Toyin Ogundipe, also praised Okpuzor's professionalism, research-oriented approach, and positive influence on students.
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Okpuzor, a distinguished scholar with a PhD in Biology from the University of Lagos, shared words of wisdom with younger female scholars, encouraging them to prioritize humanity and treat their students with care and dedication.
Throughout her illustrious career spanning 33 years at UNILAG, Okpuzor directly mentored numerous students at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of Cell and Molecular Biology. Her exemplary contributions were further highlighted by her inaugural lecture titled "Nature's Work Gang: Their Role in Life Processes."
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The retirement ceremony served as an occasion to honor Okpuzor's remarkable achievements and to reflect on the importance of promoting research and awareness in utilizing Nigeria's vast medicinal plant resources for the betterment of society.
