The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research on Monkeypox has appointed a lecturer at the Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Dr Oluwafemi Daodu, as a member of the 12-man research team on Monkeypox.

The team consists of scientists and scholars from Nigeria and Canada.

Doadu’s appointment was disclosed via UNILORIN’s bulletin issued on Monday by the Director of Corporate Affairs Department of the university, Kunle Akogun.

Akogun noted that the research team would conduct a critical research project relating to the effective combat against Monkeypox.

According him, the research is entitled, ‘Characterisng transmission dynamics and evaluating Medical countermeasures to inform the clinical and public response to Monkeypox’.

He stated that the grant for the research project and its administration will be domiciled at the Principal Investigators’ institutions, adding that as a member of the team, the project would require Daodu to travel to various locations within and outside Nigeria in pursuit of the goal and investigation of samples towards ensuring the success of the project.

Speaking on the development, Daodu said he is elated to be a member of the team, noting that when the research is completed, the project would have positive impacts on human and animal health.

“It will also boost the good image of the University of Ilorin among its peers across the world,” he said.

Also reacting, the UNILORIN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, hailed the participation of a staff of the university in the project, which he said would enhance human development.

Egbewole congratulated the UNILORIN researcher for making the team, saying he was not surprised with the inclusion of the don in the project.

The VC noted that UNILORIN houses some of the best researchers in the world, assuring Daodu of the support of the university in the task ahead and wished him a rewarding participation.

NAN