ICGEB New Delhi and Nigeria strengthen biotech partnerships in the Global South

29 October 2024: The ICGEB Appointed Governor for Nigeria visits the ICGEB New Delhi Component.

A high-level Nigerian delegation, comprising Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director General, National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), and Dr. Shakirat Ajenifujah-Solebo, Director of Genetics, Genomics & Bioinformatics, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, visited the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi Component. The team, intent on exploring areas of mutual collaboration, was received by the Director of ICGEB New Delhi, Dr. Ramesh Sonti, and had the opportunity to converse with several Group Leaders - facilitated by Mr. Rayies Altaf.

An extensive tour of the labs, greenhouses and research facilities was followed by presentations of current ICGEB projects and technologies in the fields of genetic engineering, molecular biology, plant biotechnology and bioinformatics. In addition to appreciating the chance to communicate with students and research scientists from various research groups, the delegates showed a keen interest in the science communication initiatives of ICGEB, which were identified as an area of possible collaboration.

The role of ICGEB in capacity building has long been a cornerstone of its mission, with numerous projects aimed at fostering innovation and empowering researchers in developing regions. The visit by Nigeria, full Member State of ICGEB since 1991, reinforces ICGEB's commitment to enhancing scientific capacity in the Global South, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the need for robust biotechnological infrastructure and skilled scientists is paramount.