On a beautiful sunny public holiday, Tuesday, August 25, 2026, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) marked a significant milestone in scientific advancement with the commissioning of the Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Learning Hub at the Faculty of Life Sciences.
The facility, located at S001 in the Science Complex, was generously donated by Prof. Bola Oboh, immediate past Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), who left office on March 28, 2026.
The commissioning ceremony drew an impressive gathering of family, friends, industry partners, staff, and students, many of whom expressed their admiration for the impressive new facility.
A New Era for Life Sciences
Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, Prof. Ganiyu Oyetibo, described the Learning Hub as the beginning of a new chapter in the University’s approach to scientific discovery, data, and the future of biology.
He noted that bioinformatics and computational biology are no longer peripheral fields but have become central to modern scientific research. From decoding diseases and designing therapeutics to tracking pathogen evolution and developing climate-resilient crops, computational approaches are increasingly driving breakthroughs across the life sciences.
Prof. Oyetibo envisioned the Hub as an environment where disciplines converge, bringing together biologists, clinicians, statisticians, and computer scientists to collaborate on complex scientific challenges. Beyond its infrastructure, he said, the Hub would be defined by the researchers, fellows, and students who would harness its capabilities to advance knowledge.
He expressed confidence that the facility would evolve into a centre of excellence, strengthening research capacity, improving scientific training, and contributing to better outcomes in global health, agriculture, and human well-being.
Inspiration, Courage and Perseverance
Commending Prof. Oboh for taking on the challenge of bridging biology and computation, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, encouraged members of the University community to pursue bold ideas without being deterred by financial constraints.
“Money follows value and ideas,” she said. “If you have an idea, start. Invest yourself in it. When people see its worth, they will join you.”
Prof. Ogunsola also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the co-donors and all those who contributed to bringing the project to fruition, noting that words alone could not adequately convey the depth of her gratitude.
Messages of Support
The commissioning featured goodwill messages from distinguished members of the University community and industry.
Immediate past Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Lucian Chukwu, spoke on behalf of the Faculty, while the Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Abraham Osinubi, delivered remarks on behalf of the Deans of Faculties.
The Managing Director of Marine Platforms Ltd., Mr. Taofeek Adegbite, spoke on behalf of co-donors. Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Management Services) and (Academics and Research), Prof. ‘Muyiwa Falaiye and Prof. Olusoji Ilori, respectively, conveyed messages on behalf of the University Management.
The speakers commended the vision behind the facility and its potential to strengthen the University’s research and training capabilities.
Donor’s Reflections
In her vote of thanks, Prof. Bola Oboh expressed profound appreciation to her family, colleagues, co-donors, and everyone who contributed to the project. She explained that the initiative was inspired by her desire to give back to the University after completing her tenure as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research).
Although she was initially unfamiliar with bioinformatics, Prof. Oboh said she came to appreciate its transformative potential, particularly its role in preparing students and researchers for advanced scientific investigation.
She acknowledged the challenges encountered during the project, including design modifications and technical setbacks, but emphasised that perseverance, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the vision ultimately brought the facility to life.
Prof. Oboh envisaged the Learning Hub as a catalyst for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, expressing optimism that it could contribute to discoveries of Nobel Prize-level significance in the future.
She also announced plans to acquire advanced computing systems capable of handling millions of datasets, a move aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the facility and enhancing its competitiveness on the global research stage.
A Hub for the Future
The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Learning Hub represents a strategic investment in the future of scientific research at the University of Lagos.
The facility provides a dedicated computational environment for the cleaning, assembly, analysis, and interpretation of sequencing data, equipping researchers and students with tools needed to engage with the rapidly expanding volume and complexity of biological data.
More than a physical space, the Hub is envisioned as an ecosystem for innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, skills development, and research excellence. By connecting biological sciences with computational methods, it has the potential to generate new insights, support advances in human health, strengthen agricultural research, and position the University of Lagos at the forefront of next-generation life-science research.
Author: Ndidi J. Odinikaeze
Photographer: Joshua Michael
