Nigeria Still Far Behind,Needs Genetic Database to Treat Terminal Ailments,Track Criminals,Experts Say

Two distinguished geneticists, Emeritus Professor Olufunmilayo Adebambo and Professor Ikhide Imumorin, have raised concerns over Nigeria’s lag in establishing a comprehensive genetic database. They emphasized that such a database is critical for early diagnosis and personalized treatment of terminal illnesses like cancer, as well as for modern forensic applications in tracking criminal activities.

Speaking during the popular monthly online programme Boiling Point Arena, both experts highlighted that the absence of a population-based genetic analysis through DNA testing is a major barrier to medical and security advancements in Nigeria. The discussion, themed “Genetic Revelations: Understanding the Conundrum of Paternity Conflicts in Modern Families,” was hosted by media professional Dr. Ayo Arowojolu and chaired by the Olówu of Owu, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola.

Prof. Adebambo, Nigeria’s first female Professor of Animal Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), explained that genetics fundamentally underpins human health and disease susceptibility, with immune system genes coded from birth. She reiterated the urgent need for government funding of genetic research to enable the building of a database akin to those in the US and Europe, which use fingerprint and DNA data to identify criminals efficiently.

“Our health system can be revolutionized through personalized medicine tailored to individual genetic makeup. Even issues like blood transfusion compatibility and drug efficacy depend heavily on genetics,” Prof. Adebambo stated.

Echoing similar views, Prof. Imumorin, Executive Director of the California State University Biotechnology Program, lamented the lack of rigorous scientific surveys involving genetic analysis in Nigeria. He pointed out that in countries with advanced genetic infrastructures, DNA profiling has facilitated targeted therapies for complex diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Prof. Imumorin also noted that genetic tagging in hospitals in developed countries has eliminated errors such as baby swapping in maternity wards, a practice still not systematically implemented in Nigeria.

The experts jointly appealed for urgent action by the Federal Government to fund genetic databases and research that would embody a platform for healthcare innovation and criminal justice reform across the nation.

ADVERTISEMENT

Currently, Nigeria falls behind many countries in forensic DNA database development, limiting criminal profiling and slowing advances in medical genetics that could transform patient care. As recognized by global scientific research, the establishment of national genetic databases allows for better disease gene identification, efficient diagnosis, personalized treatment options, and enhanced forensic investigations. However, funding and infrastructural support remain critical challenges needing immediate government intervention.

The two-hour Boiling Point Arena interview was broadcast live on several radio stations, including WASH FM Lagos, Sweet FM Abeokuta, Roots FM Abeokuta, Ẹrimbe FM Shagamu, Women Radio FM Mowe, and Kruzz FM Asaba, reaching a wide Nigerian audience.

Experts urge Nigerians and policymakers alike to prioritize genetic data infrastructure to harness these benefits for medical care, forensic science, and national development.