he Institute of African and Diaspora Studies, University of Lagos (IADS-UNILAG), on Thursday, August 28, 2025, marked its 2025 Traditional Medicine Day, emphasizing the need to integrate African traditional medicines into modern healthcare systems.
The event, themed “African Traditional Medicine: Implications of Patronage and Cost,” featured discussions on increasing global recognition, research, and acceptance of traditional medicines.
Call for Integration and Recognition
The Director of IADS, Professor Luqman Yusuff, condemned the perceived marginalization of herbal medicines, advocating for their acceptance as equal options to modern medicines. He emphasized the importance of developing an academic curriculum for traditional medicines to explore, preserve, and promote their potential.
Growing Acceptance and Research
Dr. Akin Otiko, a researcher at IADS, highlighted the increasing acceptance of African traditional medicine, attributing it to the rising costs of modern medicines. He also presented the achievements of the IADS Gbogbonise Clinic, established in 2024, which focuses on data generation, student learning, and bridging the gap between traditional medicine practitioners and the public.
Showcasing Medicinal Products
The event included a presentation session where postgraduate students showcased their medicinal products, with Mabel Akpokwe winning a prize of ₦50,000 for her haircare product, Akum.
The celebration also featured an exhibition of herbal medicinal products, which will run until Friday, August 29, 2025.
The 2025 Traditional Medicine Day celebration underscored the importance of promoting African traditional medicine and its potential to complement modern healthcare systems.
Report: Gbenga Gbelee
Photograph: Islamiat Akanni
