UNILAG Unveils ACEDHARS Building, Strengthens Herbal Medicine Research and Capacity Development

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has taken a significant step forward in advancing herbal medicine research and capacity development with the unveiling of the newly constructed building for the African Centre of Excellence for Drug Research, Herbal Medicine Development, and Regulatory Science (ACEDHARS). The grand ceremony took place on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the pent area of the new structure, strategically located along the University Medical Centre Road.

The event underscored UNILAG’s commitment to pioneering herbal medicine research in Africa. In her address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to fostering innovation in herbal medicine and regulatory science.

“Today is a day of thanksgiving. We are not just opening a building today; we are opening a new chapter in the development of herbal medicine in Africa,” Professor Ogunsola remarked. She highlighted the Centre’s role in strengthening postgraduate training and applied research in drug discovery, essential for Africa’s sustainable development.

Professor Ogunsola lauded the architectural brilliance of the ACEDHARS building and praised its strategic positioning within the university. She expressed appreciation to her predecessor, Professor O. T. Ogundipe, whose tenure played a pivotal role in securing the ACEDHARS project grant. She also commended the Centre’s Leader, Professor Bola Ade-Ademilua, for her leadership and acknowledged the contributions of sectoral partners to the Centre’s success.

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Ogundipe, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor and Special Guest of Honour, praised Professor Ade-Ademilua for her exceptional leadership, describing her as a “bulldozer” for her determination in overcoming challenges to ensure the successful completion of the project. He also recognized the invaluable efforts of the support staff in bringing the ACEDHARS vision to fruition.

Professor Ade-Ademilua, in her address, expressed gratitude to Professor Ogunsola for her steadfast support. She reflected on the Centre’s journey, emphasizing its commitment to building on its achievements. She also acknowledged Professor Ogundipe’s foundational efforts, which laid the groundwork for what has become a beacon of excellence in herbal medicine research.

The newly unveiled ACEDHARS building boasts several modern features, including dedicated production rooms for drug manufacturing, classrooms, high-tech laboratories, and a spacious event hall. Additionally, the pent area provides an ideal location for hosting events, while state-of-the-art office spaces and a virtual learning studio further enhance the Centre’s research and educational capabilities.

The unveiling ceremony was a vibrant celebration featuring music, dance, and performances, bringing together faculty members, industry stakeholders, and the wider university community. Distinguished individuals were also honored for their contributions to ACEDHARS, with awards presented to Professor Ogunsola, Professor Ogundipe, and Professor Kemi Odukoya, the Pioneer Director of the Centre.

Established in 2019, ACEDHARS focuses on quality assurance, standardization of dosages, herbal medicine development, drug repurposing, and safety monitoring of drugs in West and Central Africa. Research at the Centre is geared towards developing and evaluating herbal formulations for the treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

With its scenic location overlooking the Third Mainland Bridge and lagoon, the Centre is poised to become a leading hub for herbal medicine research and innovation in Africa.