The out-going Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, has stressed the need for the university to improve its quality, content, and public perception to retain its global reputation.
Peters stated this at the commissioning of NOUN Drosophila Laboratory at the Faculty of Health Sciences in Abuja on Tuesday, 10th February, 2026.
Prof. Peters, who is leaving office on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, said the university has invested in a laboratory that facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration, as the laboratory is expected to benefit various departments, including sociology and genetics.
The university, he explained, focuses on research, community service, and enhancing its reputation globally.
He said the Faculty of Sciences has achieved scientific breakthroughs and patents, adding that the university plans to hold a seminar on the sociological impact of scientific research as, according to him, it is important to relate science to community and society.
In his address, the in-coming Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, reflected on the significant achievements of Prof. Peters in Nigeria educational system.
He said Peters has made notable contribution to the National Open University Nigeria and that the commissioning of the NOUN Drosophila Laboratory is another of his great achievements.
Uduma highlighted the deepening of the research component at the university, and expressed confidence in future leadership and stabilisation efforts in the university.
The in-coming Vice-Chancellor explained that appointments will be based on need, not as souvenirs, to reward deserving individuals and encouraged colleagues to take advantage of opportunities for growth even as he showed optimism about moving forward and achieving further progress.In her welcome address, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Health Science, Prof. Helen Kwanashie, said the laboratory aims to be a centre of excellence in research, training, and outreach in Nigeria and Africa, stressing that the laboratory is to provide cost-effective opportunities for research, training, and advocacy.
The laboratory is expected to be a frontrunner in its field with sustainable action plan. A revolving drug concept is used for sustainability, minimising reliance on university funding, she added.
Prof. Kwanashie said the laboratory is considered the best at the Open University of Nigeria and the lab's strategic plan includes training future personnel to maintain sustainability.
In the tour of the laboratory led by Prof. Simeon Omale, a visiting professor to the Lab, he said it operates 24/7, with plans to acquire a camera system for monitoring.
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