By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo City, Ondo State, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi, has stated that Nigeria has yet to fully harness the potential of herbal medicine.

Prof. Fatusi made this assertion during a press briefing held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the institution in Ondo.

He emphasised that Nigeria must be deliberate in its efforts to promote herbal medicine, highlighting that the integration of science and the potential of herbs could revolutionise the country’s health sector.

According to him, “It is an opportunity for us to achieve our vision and bring the Nigerian nation to understand the power of science merged with the power of herbs, making a significant difference not only in health but also in the economy.”

He revealed that the university had introduced a Bachelor’s degree programme in herbal medicine, a long-held dream of the institution. However, the programme was initially hindered by the lack of a National Universities Commission (NUC) Benchmark Minimum Academic Standard (BMAS), now known as the Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standard (CCMAS).

“As a university, we are focused on African herbal medicine, and we also run a degree programme for those already practising herbal medicine to incorporate science into their practice,” he added.

The Don noted that the university, under his leadership, has achieved numerous innovative milestones and breakthroughs in the fields of science and medical education over the past 10 years.

He pointed out that the institution had successfully graduated three sets of doctors, dentists, and nurses within a decade—an unprecedented feat in the history of medical education in Nigeria.

The Vice-Chancellor further explained that, in addition to receiving subventions from the state government, the university had established partnerships with individuals and institutions both locally and internationally to fund its academic activities.

Prof. Fatusi highlighted that the university’s policies encourage scholars to conduct research both within and outside the country.

He called on the federal and state governments to prioritise adequate funding for existing universities rather than establishing new ones.

“The truth is that you cannot train medical doctors and dentists without adequate resources, and these resources must come from somewhere. That is why I urge both state and federal governments to fund their universities appropriately instead of creating new ones. The Ondo State Government is doing its best, but we need more support,” he said.

He further stated, “For private universities, it is their money, but they must be properly regulated. Many private universities have very low student numbers and will naturally fold later because they cannot sustain operations. A university should not be a profit-making enterprise; it should focus on making an impact and bettering the nation.”

According to him, UNIMED’s tuition fees remain relatively low and affordable compared to other universities in the country.

“We cannot charge exorbitant fees because of the subsidies we receive from the government. Without these subsidies, our fees would be comparable to those of other universities,” he explained.

Speaking on brain drain in the health sector, the Vice-Chancellor proposed that governments and other stakeholders require medical students, particularly in government-owned universities, to sign a bond compelling them to work in the country for at least two years before emigrating.

Prof. Fatusi suggested that any trained medical doctor unwilling to agree to such terms should be made to repay their tuition fees, which are subsidised in federal universities.

He stated that the anniversary was essential for attracting investments and raising awareness about the institution. “Many people want to come here, but they do not know how to go about it,” he said.

“Our major challenges are partnerships and equipment. To train medical professionals, we need high-quality equipment, which is why we are open to partnerships to further develop the institution,” he added.

Prof. Fatusi commended the Ondo State Government for its commitment to the development of the university.