The University of Abuja continues to blaze the trail in fostering academic excellence and research-driven innovation. In a significant step towards empowering young scholars, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi, last week presented a cheque of ₦5,450,000 to six outstanding undergraduate researchers who successfully defended their proposals and secured funding from the UofA Centre for Undergraduate Research (CUR).
The initiative, aimed at supporting innovative and impactful research across various disciplines, highlights the university’s commitment to nurturing problem-solving approaches that contribute to national and global development.
Ngutswen Aondonenge Emmanuel (Department of Biological Science), in collaboration with Ishaq Bashir and Edidiong Edet, will conduct research on “Bioactive Compounds from K. Pinnata and J. Tanjorensis: Isolation, Characterisation, and Revaluation of Anti-anaemic and Hepatoprotective Effects in Rats.” Their study aims to explore the medicinal properties of these plants in treating anemia and liver disorders.
Isa Iqraam Ozavize and Ishaku Monica (Veterinary Medicine) will examine “Assessment of Biosafety and Waste Management Practices in Abattoirs in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria.” Their research seeks to address concerns about public health risks associated with improper waste disposal and biosafety measures in meat-processing facilities.
Madaki Enyojo Nathan (Microbiology), alongside Faith Ann Miracle and Chukwubuikem John Ozo Oseido, is working on “Application of Vermitechnology in Solid Waste Management for Sustainable Agriculture.” The study focuses on the role of earthworms in breaking down waste into nutrient-rich compost for agricultural sustainability.
Egbeji Paul Owam (Medical Laboratory Science) and his collaborators, Gladstone Comely and Kwado Mimi Patience, are conducting research on “Evaluating the Phytochemicals and Antidiabetic Properties of Curry Leaves (Murraya Koenigii).” Their work aims to identify natural alternatives for diabetes management through plant-based remedies.
Okolie Juliet Ukamaka (Economics), working with Muhammad Yakubu and Adikwu Chioma Lucy, is investigating “Using AI and ML to Model Energy Consumption in University of Abuja’s Students’ Hostels: A Macroeconomic Approach.” Their research integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop efficient energy consumption models.
Ezeadua Valentine Chinonso (Medical Laboratory Science) and his team, Olaifa Tomiola Emmanuel, Mulikat Yusuf Onize, and Araoluwa Owolana, are exploring “Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Properties of Calopogonium Mucunoides and Mitracarpus Species (Rubiaceae) Against Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae.” This research aims to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria using plant-based alternatives.
Speaking at the cheque presentation ceremony, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi commended the students for their dedication to research and encouraged them to remain committed to academic excellence. She emphasized the university’s support for research that addresses pressing societal challenges.
The UofA Centre for Undergraduate Research (CUR) has continued to play a pivotal role in encouraging young scholars to engage in meaningful research that aligns with Nigeria’s development agenda and global scientific advancements.
With this latest batch of research grant beneficiaries, the University of Abuja reaffirms its position as a hub for academic excellence and groundbreaking research, ensuring that students are well-equipped to contribute to innovation and knowledge advancement both nationally and internationally.
