A distinguished professor of hematology and transfusion medicine at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Akamu Suleimon, has called on both the federal and state governments to make substantial investments in biobanking and ensure that such facilities are accessible to researchers.
Akanmu emphasized that such investments are both crucial and urgent, highlighting the vital role that biobanking plays in advancing medical breakthroughs.
The hematologist pointed out that biobanking is vital for the progress of medical research and the enhancement of human health.
He explained that biobanking facilities preserve biological samples that can be utilized for developing new treatments, vaccines, and diagnostic tools.
NAIJATRAFFIC has learned that Akanmu underscored the significance of biobanking in safeguarding biological specimens for future research, referencing Thomas Hodgkin’s 1762 identification of lymph nodes, which are still preserved today.
Akanmu elaborated that biobanking allows researchers to investigate disease origins, identify potential therapeutic targets, and create personalized medical solutions.
Furthermore, the professor highlighted that biobanking is essential for educating the next generation of researchers and clinicians, ensuring they have access to high-quality biological samples and advanced technologies.
Despite its significance, Akanmu expressed concern about the numerous challenges that biobanking encounters, including insufficient funding, lack of infrastructure, and the need for better regulatory frameworks.
He urged governments, industry stakeholders, and philanthropic organizations to invest in biobanking infrastructure and to support research initiatives that make use of biobanking resources.
Akanmu argued that such actions would hasten medical advancement, enhance health outcomes, and save countless lives.
He also called on the government to intentionally provide funding for research, citing the example of the United States government’s $51 billion research budget for 2024.
He reiterated that adequate research funding would empower research institutions to improve their research environments and assist other researchers within tertiary institutions.
“The power of biobanking lies in its ability to store specimens for future research.
“These specimens can hold the key to understanding diseases, developing new treatments, and improving human health,” he explained.
He, however, noted that the lack of adequate funding and infrastructure has hindered the development of biobanking in Nigeria.
“Biobanking requires significant investment in equipment, personnel, and facilities.
“Without sufficient funding, we risk falling behind in the global pursuit of medical advancements,” he highlighted.
