Microbiology has been identified as a crucial tool for Nigeria’s transition from a consumption-based economy to a knowledge-driven, biotechnologically advanced nation.
This was the central theme of discussions at the 4th South-West Conference of the National Society for Microbiology (NSM), held at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) from February 12 to 16, 2025.
With the theme “Microbiology in National Strategic Sovereignty, Security, Energy, and Economic Development,” experts at the conference emphasized the role of microbiologists in national food security, biodefense, and economic growth.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Obasola Fagade of Lagos State University of Science and Technology underscored the importance of microbial biotechnology in safeguarding national security. “The increasing threat of biological warfare, food insecurity, and global health crises has made microbial biotechnology an essential tool for national defense, biosecurity surveillance, and bioterrorism prevention,” he stated.
Professor Fagade highlighted that microbial technology is a key driver of economic development, fostering new industries and job creation. He further explained its role in biodefense, antibiotic resistance research, biofuel production, and bioremediation, demonstrating its real-world impact on national development.
Speaking on the topic “The Role of Microbiology in Increasing Food Production, Security, and Safety,” Professor Kehinde Eniola, Vice Chancellor of Kogi State University, stressed the need for Nigeria to leverage microbiology to enhance food production.
“Microbiology is often overlooked, yet it holds immense potential for tackling hunger and ensuring food security,” Eniola noted. He urged microbiologists to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, fostering industry-laboratory collaborations to drive innovation and commercial adoption of microbiological research.
“We must move beyond theory and actively seek solutions that enhance food production, improve safety, and boost Nigeria’s agricultural resilience,” he added.
In a plenary lecture, Professor Janet Olaitan discussed the role of microbiology in poverty alleviation and human capital development. She linked microbiology to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in food security, healthcare, environmental protection, and climate change.
“For Nigeria to reduce poverty, we must invest in human capital—knowledge, skills, and health—areas where microbiology plays a fundamental role,” she asserted.
Welcoming participants, conference convener Professor Oluwole David described the symposium as a hub for knowledge exchange, strengthening ties between academia and industry. He emphasized the need for collaboration, noting that such events provide platforms to share research findings, drive innovation, and enhance microbiology’s impact on society.
Similarly, FUTA Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, highlighted microbiology’s indispensable role in public health, environmental protection, and economic growth. “From improving food security to advancing industrial biotechnology, microbiologists are at the heart of national progress,” she affirmed.
The conference concluded with a call for greater recognition of microbiology’s contributions to national development. Experts urged the government and private sector to invest in microbiological research and innovation, reinforcing its role in Nigeria’s Renewed Hope agenda.
With microbiologists poised to drive breakthroughs in biotechnology, security, and food production, their expertise remains vital in shaping Nigeria’s economic and scientific future.
