UNIUYO Don Advocates Inclusion of Herbal Medicine in Primary Healthcare
Uko Okon, Uyo
Professor Uduak Essiett of the Department of Botany and Ecological Studies, University of Uyo (UNIUYO), has called for incorporating herbal medicine into Nigeria’s primary healthcare delivery system.
Professor Essiett made the advocacy during the 110th Inaugural Lecture of UNIUYO, held at the TETfund auditorium on the university’s main campus, Uyo, during the weekend.
In her lecture titled “Plant Identifier: Taxonomic Studies, Applications and Challenges,” the inaugural Lecturer highlighted the importance of plant taxonomy in healthcare, food production, and environmental conservation.
The renowned professor of Plant Taxonomy, Anatomy, and Bio-systematics emphasised the need for increased funding for research and education in plant taxonomy and the provision of modern equipment and facilities for students.
Professor Essiett also recommended regular workshops and seminars to educate the public on the benefits of wild and cultivated plants.
She stressed the importance of sustainable forest management to prevent the extinction of economically viable plants.
In his remarks, UNIUYO Vice Chancellor Professor Nyaudo Ndaeyo commended Professor Essiett for her contributions to taxonomy, botany, and bio-systematics.
He assured the university would continue to uphold the tradition of inaugural lectures.
Our correspondent reports that the event was part of the university’s academic requirements for professors and aimed to promote research, education, and community engagement.
