News NSM AN ANNUAL NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR MICROBIOLOGY (NSM) VOL.10 NO.4 SEPTEMBER, 2019

Feature Article CHLAMYDIA VACCINE MOVES A STEP CLOSER …Pioneering clinical trials raises hopes of cure for ‘hidden’ sexually transmitted infection

INSIDE:  Goodwill Message from the NSM President, Prof. Mohammed Bello Yerima, fNSM  Synopses of lead Papers at NSM Scientific Conference & AGM “UMYUK 2018”  Feature article: Chlamydia vaccine moves a step closer…pioneering clinical trials raises hopes of cure for ‘hidden’ sexually transmitted infection  Micro-Poem: The Abecedary of Microbiology by Yahaya Yunusa Riko  Newly elected NSM National Executive Council Members & Contacts  Nigerian Society for Microbiology Inaugurates Newsletter/Media Team  Repositioning the Nigerian Society for Microbiology for better Service Delivery  Photo Gallery from NSM Conferences & Zonal Symposia held in 2018  Microbiology and Advances in Technology by Dr. Chioma B. Chikere  News Flash from the Desk of the NSM National Secretariat and lot more…

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CRAWFORD UNIVERSITY

NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR MICROBIOLOGY 42ND SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE & ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) HOLDING AT MULTI- PURPOSE HALL, 3RD - 6TH SEPTEMBER, 2019

It is such an honour for me to partake in the organization of this great gathering of Microbiologists and allied Scientists. Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) has come of age and this 42nd Annual Conference titled “Microbial Resources: Option for Economic Diversification” is a proof of this especially as it pertains to economic advancement of the nation. This year’s conference promises to educate, inform and foster healthy relationships amongst member scientists and their counterparts within and outside the country. The sub-themes for this conference had been carefully selected such that the field of Microbiology could serve as a pedestal to higher heights for the nation. All the areas of Microbiology are covered to provide great avenues of refreshing for every participant. Highlights of the program include the keynote speech and plenary sessions in different areas of Microbiology, Annual General Meeting (AGM), Early Career Scientist forum, game time, lucky dip, Awards, Cocktail as well as Conference Dinner. It is therefore my pleasure to welcome you all on board this great time of professional empowerment and recreation. Folashade Agbaje-Daniels, Ph.D. Acting Head of Department, Biological Sciences, Crawford University Chairperson, Local Organizing Committee

IN THIS ISSUE:  Goodwill Message from the NSM President, Prof. Mohammed Bello Yerima, fNSM  NSM Awards for Microbiologists who became Vice Chancellors at the South-West NSM Zonal Symposium in Adeleke University, Osun State  Synopses of lead Papers at NSM Scientific Conference & AGM “UMYUK 2018”  Award of recognition to distinguished personalities by NSM NEC in 2018  Feature article: Chlamydia vaccine moves a step closer…pioneering clinical trials raises hopes of cure for ‘hidden’ sexually transmitted infection  Micro-Poem: The Abecedary of Microbiology by Yahaya Yunusa Riko  NSM Media Team Congratulates Member on his Wedding Ceremony  Newly elected NSM National Executive Council Members & Contacts  Nigerian Society for Microbiology Inaugurates Newsletter/Media Team

 Repositioning Nigerian Society for Microbiology for better Service Delivery  NSM Application Form and Guidelines for New Membership  UniPort to host the 43rd Scientific Conference & AGM of NSM in 2020  Photo Gallery from NSM Conferences & Zonal Symposia held in 2018  Microbiology and Advances in Technology by Dr. Chioma B. Chikere

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Details on 2020 NSM EDITORIAL hosting right is here EDITORIAL provided. There are also The Nigerian Society for news flash from the Microbiology Newsletter National secretariat and lot (NSM News) has over the more. Once again, I will like TEAM years, contributed to sound to express my deep and new teaching appreciation to the authors of methodologies, current all the articles in this issue, not technologies, new forgetting to thank our researches and novel editorial team for their breakthroughs in the field contributions. of General Microbiology The team always looks and will continue to forward to your professional provide valuable and up-to- contributions. The NSM date information to Newsletter will be available members. In the current online via the website: www.nsm.ng. issue, Microbiologists who Full articles and short Dr. Bamidele T. Odumosu became VCs were communications should be Editor, NSM Newsletter/PRO honoured. It also contains submitted to the Editor for selected synopses of lead consideration and publication papers presented at NSM via the E-mail address: conferences and zonal [email protected]. symposia in 2018/2019. Letters to the editor as well as Some personalities who opinions/suggestions on how have contributed to the to improve the quality and growth of the society availability of the Newsletter are also welcome. Those can were awarded. Chlamydia be submitted via the same e- vaccine moves a step mail address above. The closer…pioneering clinical opinions presented in this trials raises hopes of cure Newsletter are strictly those for ‘hidden’ sexually of the authors and not Dr. Leera Solomon Associate Editor transmitted infection is the necessarily that of the Nigerian Society for Port Harcourt Polytechnic feature article. The abecedary of microbiology Microbiology. Readers can Other Members are: and repositioning of NSM easily contact the authors of articles through their Yunusa Yahaya Riko for better service delivery respective e-mail addresses. Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Univ. are here emphasized. A summary of microbiology Always visit NSM via the Iyiola Olatunji Oladunjoye and advances in technology following media platforms: has been added. Twitter @Nsmicrobiology Application form and Kamalu Ikechukwu Okechi Facebook: @Nsmicrobiology guidelines for new Instagram: @Nsmicrobiology members, information on Epueke Mmaduka Mathew NSM2020 hosting right is Linkedln: @Nsmicrobiology Adekunle Ajasin University being pronounced. Names of the re-constituted NSM Joshua Oluseyi Newsletter/Media Team Dr. Bamidele T. Odumosu University of Lagos aimed at fast tracking Publicity Secretary/PRO, information dissemination Editor, NSM Newsletter to members are presented.

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GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT-PROF. M. B. YERIMA solutions by suggesting and her team and the ideas that will lead to rapid proceedings were proudly progress in NSM. I published in print media. The commend the LOC of South-East had just finished “Igbesa 2019” for their their own in Abia State innovation leading to University, Uturu and from massive and seamless the reports we have received, patronage of the upcoming it had been wonderful too. Conference. It is worthy of The Symposium was led by Prof. M. B. Yerima, fNSM note that a state of the Vice President himself- NSM National President emergency is declared on Prof. V. O. Nwaugo and his

our Professionalization team. To a large extent these I feel greatly honoured to give agenda and National zonal activities are helping to this goodwill message on Secretariat building in Abuja. reach out to our members in behalf of the National We are calling on all members the grass root. I urge members Executive Council (NEC) of to support this with all sense to continue to be part of our the Nigerian Society for of commitment. I am programmes and keep faith in Microbiology (NSM). It is my confident that we are going to the leadership of NSM. My pleasure to inform the put this behind us very soon. sincere appreciation to the teeming membership of this The Zonal activities had been NSM Newsletter Editorial Society that, we are making wonderful. The South-West Team, Dr. Bamidele T. giant strides in building the zone had their Symposium in Odumosu, Dr. Leera Solomon Society and making it more Adeleke University, Ede and other members for their relevant in the scheme of where more than six Vice unrelenting effort and support things in this country. I salute Chancellors who are in ensuring that members are the effort and courage of the microbiologists were in informed about our activities. Public Relations Officer-Dr. attendance. It was indeed a Thanks. B. T. Odumosu for making the very exciting Symposium in a Prof. M.B. Yerima, fNSM is a Society more visible and Professor of Applied Environmental serene and more exciting Microbiology, Department of interactive. The Chairmen of Microbiology and Biotechnology, environment. The symposium Faculty of Science, Federal University Committees and indeed all Dutse, Jigawa State, . was ably led by one of our NEC members have been own-Prof. O. M. Oyawoye wonderful in proffering

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NSM AWARDS FOR MICROBIOLOGISTS

WHO BECAME VICE CHANCELLORS

By Dr. B. T. Odumosu

The South-West zone of NSM had their 2019 Symposium in Adeleke University, Ede where more than six Vice Chancellors who are microbiologists were in attendance. It was indeed a very exciting Symposium in a serene and more exciting environment. The symposium was ably led by Prof. O. M. Oyawoye and her team. The proceedings of the conference were proudly published in print media. The Vice Chancellors who are Microbiologists and were awarded by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the society for their dedication to humanity and to the academia include the following:

Prof. Olukayode Amund Prof. Diran Famurewa , Ilara- Kings University, Ode-Omu, …OUR PRODUCTS…OUR PRIDE Mokin, Ondo State Osun State

Prof. Deboye O. Kolawole Prof. Auwalu Uba, FNSM Prof. Julius Kolawole Oloke Crown-Hill University, Vice Chancellor, Precious Corner Stone Eyenkorin, Ilorin, , Gadau University, , Oyo State

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SYNOPSES OF LEAD PAPERS AT NSM SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE & AGM “UMYUK 2018”

PROFESSIONALIZATION OF MICROBIOLOGY AS A TOOL FOR SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

By Leera Solomon, Ph.D.

undermining the integrity hundred and ninety-three and stability of the natural (193) countries agreed to system. In January 2016, the 17 Sustainable the 2030 goals for Development Goals sustainable development (SDG), which is a United were set by the United Nation’s sponsored effort Nations for achieving for a sustainable economic environmental, social and development of the world. economic growth through These goals have been green methods and cleaner classified into five (5) production technologies. subgroups -People, Planet, Prof. Auwalu Uba, fNSM The most significant targets Prosperity, Peace and Vice Chancellor, Bauchi of these goals are the Partnerships. The SDGs State University, Gadau, fulfilment of basic human aim at developing the needs and desires, since solutions which can enable essential human necessities economic and societal ustainable development S like food, cloth, shelter and development, but not at the is development that meets health care are still not expense of environmental the needs of the present accessible to majority of damage. Rather, these without compromising the the people despite the great efforts emphasise on the ability of future generations pace in the world's environmental protection to meet their own needs. It economy. Increased waste by preventing and is organizing principle for products and continuously controlling the unlawful meeting human depleting natural resources exploitation of natural development goals while at have diverted human resources (United Nations, the same time sustaining attention towards efficient 2016). Each of the 17 SDGs the ability of natural green and clear production has specific targets to be systems to provide the technologies. The achieved by 2030. The natural resources and Sustainable Development goals and targets are ecosystem services upon Goals (SDG) aim at universal, meaning they which the economy and providing these apply to all countries society depend. The desired fundamental necessities to around the world, not just result is a state of society everyone through the poor countries. Reaching where living conditions and intelligent use of the goals requires action on resource use continue to sustainable science. One all fronts – governments, meet human needs without

6 businesses, civil society contributing to our GDPs of ways. Professionalizing and people everywhere all by making tremendous the practice of have a role to play. In this contributions to our microbiology has some regard, microorganisms, manufacturing sectors and attendant benefits such as: which are vital to the tracking the role of 1. Improvement and maintenance of life on earth microbes in climate Maintenance of the are best suited and change. Microbiologists Standard of therefore can play the aim to answer many Microbiology greatest role in attaining the important global questions Practices: sustainable development by understanding applying Professionalization goals. Greater the physiological entails establishing understanding of these capabilities of microbes. acceptable creatures therefore through The application of improvement in the study microorganisms and their qualifications, and research capabilities in potentials can prosper recommend best microbiology and related solution to all of these practice and oversees fields can contribute challenges. Therefore, the conduct of tremendously to encouraging and members, and some sustainable development. harnessing the potentials of degree of demarcation The microbial world, a microbiologists and of the qualified from treasure in itself, if promoting the practice of unqualified amateurs. exploited judiciously, can microbiology by regulating At least, minimum therefore contribute to the its practice will help standard of practice sustainable development. greatly. The outstanding will be adhered to at all There are three super applications of times. The regulatory challenges of the 21st microbiology cut across all body should have century: (1) climate aspects of human life, mechanism in place change, (2) food security, which include agriculture, that will ensure the (3) dependence on environment, medical and enforcement of the imported petroleum, and I industrial. These profession’s guidelines. think microorganisms are applications are currently efficient enough in meeting harnessed mostly through This will improve and out these challenges. biotechnology, a highly sustain the standard of Nigeria is not an exception skilled technique of microbiological in facing these challenges exploring biological practices, and in turn and therefore must utilize processes for beneficial will have positive its enormous human capital purposes. As majority of impact on societal in addressing them. biotechnological development. Understanding the Science applications are of 2. Easing and Guiding of Microbiology ensures microbial origin, Government Policies: production of adequate microbiology is Government can easily food, safety of food, indispensable, and its access microbiology treatment and preventing professionalization can experts through the diseases, developing green substantially contribute to professional technologies, our sustainable national association if environments are clean, development in a number professionalized, for

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judicious advice on accreditation problem and microbiological issues requirements of the contributing to of national interest. professional national development. True experts can guide association. 5. Patent License and and advise government Professionalizing the Idea Protection: about policies on practice of Professionalization various issues, such as microbiology will protects the rights of tackling the menace of ensure that young its professional antibiotic resistance by members will undergo members from forces microorganisms, a sustained period of within and outside the prevention and control mentored profession. Protection of epidemics, bio experience/apprentice of members’ ideas will alternatives to fossil ship and continuing certainly instill fuels, waste education for greater confidence into management and output. members; promote pollution control. This 4. Shape Research researches that will may also lead to Direction: Professional lead to production of various researches, members will at least various goods and which may yield novel on annual basis services for national results. organize development. 3. Self-Development: meeting/conference, The Theme of this year’s Professionalization so that members will conference is requires members of a share and discuss thier ‘’Professionalization of profession to have research outcomes Microbiology as Tool for certain minimum with peers and listen to Sustainable National educational other people’s Development. The qualification before research. This provides contribution of they can be certified. avenue for knowledge microbiology in sustainable Furthermore, the sharing and transfer. national development members are The professional cannot be accredited on timely association can identify overemphasized. Microbes basis to ensure area/areas of particular are major stakeholders. A competence. This will national or societal summary of the role of encourage members to importance, which microbes/microbiology in be in constant self- members will be achieving the sustainable development and mandated to focus development goals is improvement so as to researches on, thus presented in Table 1: satisfy the addressing national

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Table 1: Summary of role of Microbes in achieving Sustainable Development Goals 1- 17 SDG GOAL APPLICATION OF MICROORGANISM 1 Poverty Income Generation Reduction Production of Gobar Gas by methane-producing organisms such as (No Poverty) Methylosinus, Methylocystis, Methanomonas, Methylomonas, Methanobacter, and Methylococcus, Traditional food in Nigeria like Ogi, Garri, Pito, and Iru, Vinegar (by Lactic Acid Bacteria and Yeast), and daddawa by many species of bacteria. 2 Hunger Fermentation Reduction Pickles (Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus plantarum, Pediococcus (Zero Hunger) cerevisiae), Milk (Lactobacillus), Tempe (Acetobacter and Rhizopus oligosporus), Cheese (Penicillium roqueforti, Streptococcus salivarius subsp thermophilus), Soy Sauce (Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus soyae, Aspergillus glaucus), Yogurt (Lactobacillus delbruekii subsp bulgaricus, Streptococcus salivarius subsp thermophilus) and Bread (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) Soil Fertility: Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiotic fungi and phosphate solubilizing microorganisms such as Pantoea agglomerans, Microbacterium laevaniformans and Pseudomonas putida 3 Good Health and Prebiotics and Probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Aspergillus niger, Well-Being Saccharomyces carisbergensis) Development of New Drugs Penicillin (Penicillium notatum) (Streptomyces venezuelae) Immunoregulation in Humans (Bifi dobacteria and Lactobacilli) Gastrointestinal Flora Prevention of diseases like gastroenteritis (Prevotella, Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Ruminococcus) Controlling Pollution related diseases like Burkholderia, arthrobacter, Chromobacterium, Micrococcus, Candida, Pseudomonas and Bacillus. 4 Quality Teaching, Research and Innovation: Building Good Environment, Education Renewable energy sources for reading in rural communities Microbial Fuel Cell, Biogas 5 Gender Equality Sexual and Reproductive health Income generation Empowerment Well-being of the family Promoting education among women will improve the wellbeing of their children, families, and society 6 Clean Water and Controlling Poor-Sanitation Sanitation Regulation of microbial load Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Vibrio, and Shigella can significantly contribute in controlling water-borne diseases 7 Affordable and Electricity generation (Bioenergy and Biofuel): Botryococcus can store up Clean Energy to 50% of the biomass in the form of long-chain hydrocarbons. Utilizing of organic matter by Shewanella oneidensis and Geobacter sulfurreducens to produce utilizable electricity. Utilizing waste products such as sewage sludge, municipal solid waste and agricultural waste by Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Clostridium to produce bioenergy.

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8 Decent Work Biogas stove provides jobs in Sub-Sahara Africa. and Economic Microbes produce a lot of industrial products that provide jobs, etc. Growth 9 Industry, Biofertilizers: Pseudomonas and Rhizobia. Innovation and Microbial products: Coenzyme (Brevibacterium ammoniagenes), Riboflavin Infrastructure fermentation (Eremothecium ashbyii, Ashbya gossypii, Bacillus sp.), Vitamin B12 (Propionibacterium shermanii, Pseudomonas denitrificans), S- Adenosylhomocysteine (Alcaligenes faecalis), Biotin (Serratia marcescens, Bacillus sphaericus); etc. 10 Reduced Women can be taught the importance of soil microflora like Burkholderia, Inequality Pseudomonas, Rhizobium, Trichoderma, Bradyrhizobium, and Azospirillium in improving crop productivities 11 Sustainable Ecology of urban cities and Solid waste management Cities and Composting of the solid waste uses microorganisms like Pseudomonas, Communities Bacillus, Microbispora, Actinobifida and Thermoactinomycetes for converting its organic constituents into useful end products. 12 Responsible Responsible production through bacterial cellulose Consumption Bacterial Cellulose (BC) from Komagataeibacter can be used in the and Production production of fuel and Li-ion batteries 13 Climate Action Microbial and Environmental education Bioremediation Biogeochemical cycles: Microbes are key drivers in biogeochemical cycles like nitrogen, carbon and phosphorus cycles. Nitrogen fertilizers Biofuel production 14 Life below Aquaculture: Microbes can effectively boost the production of fisheries by Water (Marine controlling the pathogenic outburst and water quality, as well as regulating Ecosystems) the environmental impact. 15 Life on Land Ubiquitous functions (Ecosystems) Microbes stabilize the soil structure, enable nutrient uptake by plants, control pests and diseases, decompose organic material and degrade harmful chemicals, as well as being an indicator of the soil health. 16 Peace, Justice Combating bioterrorism and Strong Microbial forensics can be used to trace perpetrators and sources of Institutions biohazard, thereby being used as a powerful tool for combating bioterrorism. 17 Global Capacity building on trade-related aspects. Partnerships for The benefits of microbes and microbial technology can only reach the people Sustainable through globalization and overcoming land barriers. Development The sub-themes of this 1. Microbial and nurture them, and in conference have been Biotechnology for the infrastructure needed chosen to give more insight Sustainable Economic for them to thrive. into the potentials of Growth: Microbial biotechnology is microbes in contributing to Numerous individuals and both one of the oldest national development. As organizations have technologies and one of erudite scholars will speak emphasized the economic the newest and most on each of them, I will only potential of knowledge‐ rapidly growing industries. give a little highlight about based business sectors, There should be no doubt each. and the need to invest in in anybody's mind that

10 microorganisms are the manipulating them to processes e.g., copper most powerful creatures in improve our lot. extraction, iron existence. They can be It is no doubt, therefore extraction involving harnessed to sustain life those microbes, through bacteria called Ferro- and create wealth. their beneficial effects and oxidans. Because they produce a processes impact on 2. Microbes for variety of products which economic empowerment. Agricultural enjoy a constant and As such microbes make Development and reliable market demand huge impact on economic Food Security and the ability to secure growth and invariably, Microbes for agricultural income for nations. significantly contribute to development and food Microbial Biotechnology the GDP of any nation. security can be viewed contains many diverse a) Microbial cells are under different technologies that may be transformed and used perspectives, such as: applied in food, medical, in production of i. Microbes and soil Pharmaceuticals, seed commercially fertility technology, agriculture important products, ii. Microbes and food and industrial sectors. It e.g. production of production also includes a range of human insulin, human iii. Microbes and food technologies used to growth hormone. quality process the raw food b) Using biotechnology iv. Microbes and food materials produced by the techniques, bacteria safety, etc. crop, fishery and livestock can also be In general agriculture, soil sectors. Microbiology in bioengineered for the microorganisms affect the food processing sector production of plant productivity by: targets the selection and therapeutic proteins, i. acting upon soil improvement of such as insulin, growth physical and/or microorganisms with the factors or antibodies. chemical properties objectives of improving c) Fermentation and, process control, yields and processes, such as ii. interaction with plant efficiency as well as the brewing, baking, roots. quality, safety and cheese and butter The conversion of complex consistency of manufacturing. molecular compounds into bioprocesses products. d) Chemical ionic forms is carried out by The advent of manufacturing such as microorganisms either biotechnology has made it ethanol, acetone, directly or indirectly very easy for us to take organic acid, enzymes, through a process called advantage of the various perfumes etc. mineralization. useful aspects of microbes. e) Microbial mining, in 3. Microbiology for Now we can take the genes which bacteria and Enhanced out of microbes in any other microorganisms Environment and environment and study are cultured in Public Health their diversity by looking at container and then Microbes and their their genes with a view to used for these biosynthetic capabilities

11 have been invaluable in clean up or decontaminate sustainable development finding solutions for the soil are expensive, goals. several intractable labour intensive, do not  They are adjudged to be problems mankind has always ensure that very powerful tools that encountered in pollutants are completely can: drive industrial maintaining the quality of removed or destroyed and growth, Provide jobs, the environment. They often result in abrupt promote sustainable have, for example, been changes to the physical, agriculture and ensures used to positive effect in chemical, and biological food security, diversify human and animal health, characteristics of the economy such as environmental protection, treated soil. Use of Nigeria’s that can help and municipal and microorganisms have reduce dependence on industrial waste treatment. shown promises in mono commodity, help Microorganisms have remediation of soil maintaining the quality enabled feasible and cost- contaminated with heavy of the environment, help effective responses which metals and radionuclide, in prevention, diagnosis would have been organic compounds and treatment of impossible via including chlorinated infectious diseases and straightforward chemical solvents like TCE; improvement of human or physical engineering explosives such as TNT, and animal health. What methods. Microbial RDX; petroleum else do we expect from technologies have of late hydrocarbons including these tiny unseen been applied to a range of PAHs; PCBs and pesticides creatures? All we need to environmental problems, such as atrazine and do is to improve on the with considerable success. organophosphates. application and practice Starting from the mining of Understanding of the science of raw materials to microbiology also helps in microbiology so that we production, prevention, diagnosis and can understand them transportation, use by end treatment of infectious more and more for our users, disposal or diseases. In addition, this own benefit. The more accidental spills of field of science studies we understand them, the chemicals often various clinical applications more benefits we derive contaminate soil to the of microbes for the from them as a nation. extent that threaten the improvement of health. health of human life, Conclusion (References for this livestock, wildlife and  Microbes are key keynote paper presented indeed whole ecosystems. contributors to the are available with the Traditional methods to attainment of the Media/Editorial team of this NSM Newsletter)

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MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Professor Mohammed Bello Yerima, fNSM Professor of Applied Environmental Microbiology, Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, , Jigawa State, Nigeria

The crux of the presentation and the mechanisms behind Yerima then delved into is that sustainable national the penetration of cell walls statistics to illustrate his development in Nigeria can of plants by points made during the and will be driven by microorganisms. Prof presentation more judicious, sustained, Yerima cited numerous elaborately. By 2020, the deliberate and improved examples, often professor explained, applications of microbial accompanied by vivid biotechnology will be biotechnology in all its illustrations, including the contributing thousands of multifaceted forms and one of ‘Professor P. indica’ dollars to the economy. For dimensions. Professor in Delhi, who used the instance, 20% of all Yerima, who was then Vice fungus P. indica for chemicals, globally, will be President, and now, biocontrol, hence the produced through President, Nigerian Society sobriquet assigned to him biotechnology. for Microbiology, talked was the name of the fungus. Bioelectrogenesis was the about nanotechnology, the This illustrates the potential next talked about topic by fast rising branch of of fungi as important agents the Professor, and for me, microbial biotechnology in microbial biotechnology, probably one of the pieces that lower the bar from in addition to the well- de resistance of the microns to nano. He known quintessence of presentation. In the period, introduced ‘traditional bacteria in such roles. power supply can be biotechnology’ as the Another important fungus described as being applications of the professor talked about interruptive or epileptic, at biotechnology in local is Trichoderma which is least in my locale, so this contexts, often employed in plant stress topic naturally grabbed my unknowingly, e.g. in the resistance induction already captivated attention production of the experiments, especially more. Prof Yerima talked traditional Hausa against abiotic conditions. about Magnetosprillum condiment, daddawa, and Prof also talked about the magnetotacticum and nono, a fermented milk biotrophic root symbiont ‘Blembersi bacilli’ and product. The professor Piriformosporai, and its their application in proceeds to discuss about application, which leads to generating electricity from the incursion of a discussion about microorganisms! To biotechnology into arbuscular mycorrhizal conclude the lecture, one of agriculture, where, for fungi (AMF) in general, the most enduring example, gene and their role in plant- memories from the transformation in plants microbe interactions. Prof conference was created

13 when Prof Yerima power of microbes, if you national development in acknowledged Professor D. take care of them, they will Nigeria. A. Machido who was take care of you in the present in the first row at future”. It is a befitting end (References for this the University Auditorium, to a truly wonderful keynote paper presented as his teacher. He thanked presented that was at UMYUK 2019 him for teaching him the educative, informative and Conference are available “difference between chalk served to drive the point with the Media/Editorial and cheese”. After a home that microbial team of this NSM thunderous applause, biotechnology will hold Newsletter). Professor M.B. Yerima sway among the comity of gave a golden quote: catalysts that will hopefully “Never underestimate the accelerate sustainable

L- R: Former NSM Secretary, Prof. M. D. Mukhtar presenting an award of stewardship and excellent leadership to the newly elected NSM president, Prof. M. B. Yerima during the society’s 41th Scientific Conference & AGM held in UMYU Katsina 2018.

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MICROBIOLOGY FOR ENHANCED ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH

By Yunusa Yahaya Riko

the excellent rhetoric fungus Geobacter sp is question asked by the employed in the Professor: “Without bioremediation of microbes and radioactive materials. microbiology, what would Further ‘new friends’ - as our environment: soil, air, we call newly known water etc be like”. Come to members of the microbial

Prof. J. N. Ogbulie, FNSM, FNES think of it, in the absence of world – introduced by the Federal University of microbes, to quote professor include Technology, Owerri something I once saw Methylobacter somewhere but can’t mesophilicum, L. Professor J.N. Ogbulie, of remember exactly where, rhamnosus (which is the esteemed Federal “the whole will be a giant employed in the treatment University of Technology, refuse dump”, teeming with of anxiety!) and C. Owerri, presented about the carcasses and corpses, sporogenes, which, to put it role microorganisms can filthy to look to the eye, simply, kills cancer. play in the contexts of inhospitable to man and Profesor Ogbulie also environment and public virtually all creatures. I asserts that globally, only health, with specific remembered the Professor US is selling emphasis on the role of talking about the bioremediatory microbes in pathogenesis application of the SMART microorganisms on a of ailments of high public acronym from a commercial scale. This concern and their control, microbiologic perspective, dovetailed with the overall and the established i.e. designing of policies, emerging idea emerging phenomenon of microbial etc shall be tailored towards from the conference, there bioremediation and creation of is great potential, but little environmental reclamation. objectives/policies that are utilization of microbes, and The professor gives a Specific, Measurable, hence we must do more. refresher of an overview on Achievable, Reliable and The professor concludes microbiological basics in Timely. The professor also the presentation by general, with emphasis on discussed about concurring that giant various approaches to Mycoremediation, where strides remain to be taken in categorization of microbes. the myriad of fungi’s developing countries like This greatly helped the up- digestive enzymes are Nigeria, towards the utmost and-coming utilized in the breaking utilization of the diverse microbiologists, as the down of hydrocarbons, potentialities of lecture was brought to their pesticides, and heavy microorganisms, especially level. Then, Professor metals. Of the key magnum in the area of Ogbulie moved notches opuses of the presentation environmental and public higher, and this began with was the divulging by health from the Nigerian Professor Ogbulie that the viewpoint.

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AWARD OF RECOGNITION TO DISTINGUISHED PERSONALITIES BY NSM NEC IN 2018

In line with the Constitution of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM), some eminent personalities who have distinguished themselves and have supported the society were recognized and awarded. The event took place at the 41st Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting held at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina, in September, 2018. The 2018 Fellowship Awardees include the following personalities:

Distinguished Senator Barau I. Jibrin Kano North Senatorial District Hon. AbdurRahman Suleiman Kawu Sumaila [Facilitator and sponsor of the Microbiology Council Facilitator of Microbiology Council of Nigeria of Nigeria (MCN) Bill] (MCN) Bill at the House of Representative

The Awardees were presented with plaques and certificates. With this award, the awardees are authorized to use the acronym “FNSM” after their names and hence, admitted into the Committee of Fellows of the Society. The Nigerian Society for Microbiology fellowship “FNSM” awardees were encouraged to maintain the hard work and dedication to the service of the society and humanity, which earned

Prof. Idris ISa Funtua them this highest recognition of the VC, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina learned professional society (the NSM).

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Feature Article: CHLAMYDIA VACCINE MOVES A STEP CLOSER …Pioneering clinical trial raises hopes of cure for ‘hidden’ sexually transmitted infection

Chlamydia can be of antibodies in vaginal treated with antibiotics, but fluid was important. “We infection often has no see the antibodies as a first symptoms and many line of defence,” he said. people are unaware they “They should be able to have it. Without treatment, target the bacteria once it it can lead to a range of enters the genital tract.” He complications for men and said the study suggested the women, including fertility injection could provide issues and an increased risk Dr. Leera Solomon sufficient protection of HIV. Dr Frank measures have failed to against chlamydia, without Follmann, the head of tackle the problem and the need for the nasal spray. chlamydia vaccine research suggest a vaccine would be The findings raise hopes at Statens Serum Institute beneficial. Writing in the that the vaccine could in Denmark and a co-author Lancet Infectious Diseases eventually be given at the of the study, said: journal, the researchers same time as the HPV “Chlamydia is a hidden describe how they tested vaccine, which protects epidemic. It is very well two formulations of a against certain cancers adapted to infecting both vaccine, with each type including that of the cervix. men and women and in given to 15 women aged The treatment is most cases it does it without between 19 and 45 who did still at an early stage of any symptoms.” not have chlamydia. development, but the team Another five chlamydia- said the trial results were free women were given a promising and that testing placebo. All received three should proceed to the next injections into their arm stage with a larger number muscle over four months, of participants. “The next followed by two doses step is to test whether or not administered through a it could in fact protect nasal spray in the weeks [against chlamydia after. Neither the women infection] in humans,” nor those monitoring the Follmann said. impact of the vaccine were Micrograph of Chlamydia aware of who was in which (References for this article group. The results showed are available with the There have been no serious adverse media/editorial team of recent drives to improve reactions to the vaccines. this NSM Newsletter). For testing through screening The vaccinations, but not further information on this programmes, particularly the placebo, produced an finding, you may visit among young people, but immune response. www. theguardian.org. the study’s authors say such Follmann said the presence

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MICRO-POEM: THE ABECEDARY OF

MICROBIOLOGY

Mr. Yunusa Yahaya Riko B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology, Umaru Musa Yar'adua University, Katsina Member, Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) Editorial Team

Before you can say you know our dear N is for Neisseria and the bad rep it holds, microbiology, ‘Tis said that our alpha O is for Orientia tsutsugamushi, and beta are your first ideology. And P is for Providencia rettgeri. Q is for quorum sensing – the microbial

hug, Our A is for autoclaving things raw, R is for resistance, I hate you – O superbug! B is for the bacteria we all once saw, S is for Saccharomyces, our dear yeast, C is for culturing, that is ‘to grow’, T is for Tuberculosis, that thing is a beast! And D is for dry-heat, did I hear you say

‘Ow!’? U is for UTIs that debilitate the old, and the Our E stands for Elephantiasis – a disease, maids! F is for Francisella, let’s our knowledge V is for viruses, such as the one that cause increase, AIDS, G is for Gram-staining: be in it well versed, W is for wine-making, work and wealth, H is for hand-washing, hey safety first! X stands for X-ray, in public health.

I is for immunology: where microbes go Y is for Yersinia, ever heard of the plague? ‘crunch’! Z is for Zika, and Zidovudine, a knock on J is for Jackard-C, a sort of a brain lunch, the morgue. K is for Koch; hey we’ve got history, L is for Laboratory, where we solve every Brief note on the Micropoem mystery. Title: The poem attempts to capture the multifaceted nature of microbiology as a M is for Mycobacterium, and molds, discipline, by referencing as many a facet as

18 possible. Hence the term abecedary attempts disease, and Neisseria meningitis, known for to signify the relation of the alphabet as being its ruthless pathogenesis and brutal the entities with which all of English symptoms. language is written, and comparatively associating it with the various aspects of Lines 17 and 18: Part of the mystique of microbiology presented in the paper, from microbiology is its exotic-sounding, awe- numerical taxonomy to pharmaceutical inspiring specie names, and two common, yet microbiology. cool ones are presented here.

Line 2: The term alphabet was coined from Line 19: Quorom-sensing is a bacterial alpha and beta, the first two letters of the technique for checkmating population Greek alphabet density through expression of signal protein. The term hug, in humans, signifies affection, Line 3: The term ‘raw’ here refers to the bond and relation. As used in this context, it uncooked sense, and after things are signifies inter and intra relation betwixt and autoclaved, hence, sterilized, they are ready among variegated microbial species and to be used, essentially, as if they have never populations. been used, or cooked, before Line 23: The urinary tract infections have Line 8: The idea here is increasing one’s been proven to have a penchant for attacking knowledge of various pathogens, from their the elderly, obviously due to names to their nature. immunosuppression, however, young maids are also particularly susceptible due to their Line 11: Immunology is the course that uro-genital caricature. really explores and brings to the fore the vulnerability of microbes, and macrophages Line 25: This line serves to show that since specifically are known to ‘eat’ microbes, antiquity, microbiology is a “marketable (from phagein – to eat) hence the illusion to course”, and it is incorporated in the poem to crunch, a certain onomatopoeic expression invoke elements of job opportunities for for an act of eating. microbiologists in the reader. Line 12: The Jackard coefficient is a Line 26: Microbiology is closely related to coefficient of association employed in medicine in general. The x-ray referred here numerical taxonomy to group microbes into is not the one to detect broken bones, rather, related taxa based on matching characters, it is the one done to detect parasites after where, characters that both organisms lack administration of barium emulsion to are not taken into account. It is said to be a patients. brain lunch because the reader, upon seeing a new expression, will research and know it, Line 28: The Zika virus can be fatal, and hence, exercising his brain, in other words, zidovudine is administrated against AIDS - a giving his brain a lunch, or, if he knew it disease once synonymous with death. already, he will smile and recall, also giving Mr. Yunusa Yahaya Riko is a graduate of his brain a lunch. Microbiology, Umaru Musa Yar'adua Line 16: Neisseria species have a University, Katsina. particularly bad rep, or, reputation, two type E-mail: [email protected]; species are: Neisseria gonorrhae, associated [email protected] with gonorrhoea - a sexually transmitted

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NSM MEDIA TEAM CONGRATULATES MEMBER ON HIS WEDDING CEREMONY

By Iyiola Olatunji Oladunjoye, Port Harcourt The Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) Media Team has congratulated one of its members, Dr. Leera Solomon on his wedding ceremony. Dr.Leera is a member of NSM Media Team and currently, the Associate Editor of the Society’s Newsletter. He was joined in matrimony with his beautiful wife, Tornebari by Apt. S. L. Mgboalu on Saturday 6th July, 2019 at The Ascension Apostolic Church Worldwide, International Headquarters, Port Harcourt. The historic event was graciously attended by learned academics and well-wishers including Major G. O. N. Nwagbara, Profs. N. Frank-Peterside, S. N. Ibe, E. C. Wokoma, L. O. Odokuma and L. C. Osuji. The NSM President, Prof. M. B. Yerima, ably represented by the HOD, Microbiology Department, University of Port Harcourt, Dr. C. J. Ogugbue charged the couple to live in peace.

The Bride: Mrs. Tornebari Leera-Solomon

The exchange of marital vows by couple at the Church Alter

A cross section of family and well-wishers at the occasion L-R: Prof. Nnenna Frank-Peterside, groom & bride (middle) with Prof. Stella N. Ibe at the reception

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NEWLY ELECTED NSM NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS

Prof. M. B. Yerima, fNSM President Prof. V. O. Nwaugo, fNSM Dr. Usman A. Dutsinma Federal Univ., Dutse Vice President National Secretary [email protected]; Abia State Univ., Uturu Bayero Univ., Kano [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] +2348035052930 +2348063494654 +2348035892096

Prof. D. J. Arotupin Dr. Sunday Awe Dr. Bamidele T. Odumosu Treasurer Asst. National Secretary Publicity Secretary Federal University of Kwara State Univ., Malete University of Lagos Technology, Akure [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] +2348035181240 +2348034515048 +2348069256670

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Prof. Comfort A. Etok Dr. E. C. Ekwealor Prof. S. A. Ado, fNSM Financial Secretary Internal Auditor Editor-in-Chief Nnamdi Azikiwe Univ., Ahmadu Bello Univ., Zaria [email protected] Awka [email protected] +2348030534331 [email protected] +2348037015569 +2348035080790

Dr. Aminu Bukar Dr. O. M. David Dr. V. N. Chigor Asst. Editor (North) Asst. Editor (West) Asst. Editor (East) Bayero University, Kano Ekiti State Univ., Ado-Ekiti Univ. of Nigeria, Nsukka [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] +2348023567064 +2348030883124 +2348036922106

Dr. A.B. Suleiman Prof. M. D. Makut Prof. O. C. Ugbogu Virology Representative Mycology Representative Bacteriology Ahmadu Bello Univ., Zaria Nassarawa State Univ., Lafia Representative [email protected] +2348146280528; Abia State Univ., Uturu +2348036127111 +2348095435127 [email protected]

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+2347034745641

Dr. C.J. Ogugbue Prof. K. I. T. Eniola, fNSM Legal Adviser Prof. J. D. Mawak Ex-officio (IPP) University of Port Harcourt, Port Business Manager Joseph-Ayo Babalola Harcourt , Jos University, Ikeji-Arakeji [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] +2348108643429 +2348035889368 +2348033611032

NSM INAUGURATES NEW MEDIA TEAM The Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) has inaugurated its new media/publicity team. The team was constituted in 2018 and charged with the following responsibilities: (i) publicize the national activities of NSM along with the Public Relation Officer (PRO), (ii) publish the Society’s Newsletter and (iii) manage its social media pages such as Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook. Team members are:

1. Dr. B. T. Odumosu Editor 2. Dr. Leera Solomon Associate Editor 3. Yahaya Yunusa Riko Member Prof. E. S. Amadi, FNSM 4. Joshua Oluseyi ,, Ex-officio (IPS) 5. Iyiola Olatunji Oladunjoye ,, Federal University of 6. Kamalu Ikechukwu Okechi ,, Technology, Owerri 7. Epueke Mmaduka Mathew ,, [email protected] +2348037790276

Always visit the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) online via the following: Website: www.nsm.ng Twitter @Nsmicrobiology Facebook: @Nsmicrobiology Instagram: @Nsmicrobiology Linkedln: @Nsmicrobiology

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REPOSITIONING THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR MICROBIOLOGY FOR BETTER SERVICE DELIVERING

The Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) is the parent body of all microbiology related societies in Nigeria. The society was founded in 1972 by passionate scientists who saw the future Bamidele T. Odumosu, Ph.D. needs for all microbiologists to come together as one body and provide solutions to our country. Overtime the impact of the society had been felt in various areas such as food, industrial, medicine, environment and other related disciplines.

However, increase in developmental challenges and interests have evolved overtime and it seems these challenges have somehow affected the impact of this noble society. In the light of this, NSM is now poised for great awakening of the field of Microbiology and its impact in the development of this country and beyond. We have rebranded NSM in terms of our impact and mission for the nation. The National Executive Council (NEC) have taken the ‘Professionalization of Microbiology’ as a front burning task that must be achieve against all odds (I believe efforts on this matters are being emphasized).

Our membership drive has tripled over a short period of time because we now have various interactive platform where members can directly communicate with one another and receive immediate response. Our ‘Telegram Group’ can accommodate tens of thousands of our members at once with active participants of all our executive members across the nation. Our website has been fully rebranded for seamless activities such as user accounts, direct registration and membership renewals; application form are available for downloads and much more. We are visible on all relevant social media pages and our response time is unbeatable.

Our student arm, Nigerian Association of Microbiology Students (NAMS) is fully incorporated for mentorship and fast induction into the profession. Our teaching styles and technology usage is now fully integrated into our students because we strongly believe they are the future of the society we build. We saw the need for all these in the face of new tides and we are prepared to move with time. We therefore welcome you to a new era and for you to join this noble profession where our only culture is microorganism.

Dr. Bamidele Tolulope Odumosu Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology University of Lagos, Akoka Yaba Lagos National Public Relation Officer

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NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR MICROBIOLOGY APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP I wish to become a member of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology

1. Name…………………………………………………………….……………..………………………………………………………………….. (Surname) (Other Names) (Title)……………………………………………………….………….. (Date of Birth)………………………………………………………….

2. Academic Qualifications: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3. Field of Specialization: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4. Occupation: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5. Years of Experience: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6. Permanent Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7. Correspondence: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Tel. NO……………………………………… FAX……………………………E-mail………………………………...... 8. Class of Membership required: (Tick choice): Full/Fellow/Honorary/Life/Corporate/Student 9. (i) Registration:

= N6,000.00 Annual Dues: Full/Honorary = N 6,000.00 Full/Honorary Student (UG) =N 1000.00 Life = N 20,000.00 Life = N Corporate = N 20,000.00 200,000.00 Corporate = N PG student= N 1000.00 20,000.00 UG student= N 500.00 (ii) Payment: Pay to any branch UNION BANK NIG. PLC (Idi-Araba, Lagos) ACC NO: 0007380241, ACC NAME: NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR MICROBIOLOGY Scanned copy of Teller be sent to the Secretary via e-mail address: [email protected], [email protected] * Student membership forms MUST be endorsed by his/her HOD

…………………………………………………………………. …………………………………. …………………………… HOD’s Name Signature Date

10. Specialized groups (tick choice): A member of NSM must belong to, at least, one group (a) Industrial, Food and Pharmaceutical Microbiology Group Incorporate all aspects of Industrial and Environmental Microbiology, Food Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Microbiology (b) Medical Microbiology and Parasitology Group Incorporate all aspects of Pathogenic Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Parasitology, Public Health. (c) Agricultural Microbiology Group Incorporate Plant Microbiology and Pathology, Rhizobiology, Soil Microbiology, etc.

11. Declaration: I declare that the information given above is correct.

Signature………………………………………… Date:……………………………………………………………………………………

Send the completed form to: Dr. Usman Aliyu Dutsinma The Secretary, The Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM), Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Kano State, Nigeria.

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

The above named Prof./Dr/Mr./Mrs./Miss……...... Of…………………………………….has been accepted as……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...... member of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) upon payment of……………………………………………………………………………………………naira for which Receipt No……………………………………………………………………………….of………………………………………....was issued. Received by Secretary on……………………………………Secretary’s signature:………………………………Information sent to Treasurer on:………………………………

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UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT TO HOST THE 43RD SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE & AGM OF NSM IN 2020 “NSM-UNIPORT2020”

University of Port Harcourt will play host to the 43rd Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) in 2020. As the renounced Entrepreneurial University of Port Harcourt prepares to host members of the NSM family and other professionals in 2020, Associate Editor, NSM Newsletter, Dr. Leera Solomon, obtained a brief history of the citadel of academic excellence and that of Microbiology Department from the H.O.D., Microbiology for the NSM Newsletter.

The University of including Environmental, of the economy including Port Harcourt was initially Food, Industrial and Medical Government Regulatory established in 1975 as the Microbiology and these areas Agencies, Petro-chemical University College of Port have generated considerable industries, Food Harcourt. But in 1977, the research and practical interest Manufacturing Industries, University was granted a full globally. In line with the Public-Health university status. National Universities Establishments, Universities, Microbiology as a discipline Commission (NUC) and with Polytechnics and others. was at a time designated respect to the Minimum The Department is “Microbiology Unit” (like the Academic Standard (MACS), located in the hub of oil and other disciplines) in the then the Department emphasizes gas business in Nigeria and School of Biological the concept of relevant broad- contributes positively to the Sciences. The unit based training comprising industry through relevant metamorphosed into a full- biological, chemical and research outputs and the fledged Department of physical sciences as well as training of capacity. Thus, it Microbiology on October 1, arts. The knowledge impacted contributes to local and 1983. However, the is to produce graduate who national development. Department turned out her will be of considerable service According to the Head of first set of graduates (B.Sc. in to academia, food and Department, Microbiology, Microbiology) in 1981.Since agricultural industries, Dr. C. J. Ogugbue, the then, the number of students breweries, department is poised to host the in the department has grown medical/pharmaceutical 43rd NSM Scientific Conference tremendously over the years. establishments, oil/gas and AGM in September, 2020 The Department offers one of industries, etc. In this regard, and welcomes all the most diverse areas of many of our graduates are Microbiologists and other bioscientific and self-reliant and gainfully professionals in Nigeria and the diaspora to this august meeting. biotechnological studies employed in various sectors It promises to be an epoch-

26 making event in the treasure base of the Nigeria, he stated. PHOTO GALLERY FROM NSM SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCES AND ZONAL SYMPOSIA HELD IN 2018

Prof. S. A. Ado (left) and Prof. J. D. Mawak (right) and Dr. B. T. Odumosu (4th middle) being flanked by their colleague (middle) sitting at the 41th NSM newly inducted NAMS Executives at Chrisland Scientific Conference and AGM held UMYUK2018 University Abeokuta, Ogun State in 2018

Prof. Olaitan DVC presenting an award Prof. Idris Isa Funtua (VC UMYU Katsina) and Prof. to the Honourable commissioner in Katsina State who is a Auwalu Uba (VC University, Gadau Microbiologist during UMYUK Conference 2018

A cross section of Delegates at the 41st Scientific R-L: Profs. E. S. Amadi, O. C. Ugbogu, K. I. T. Eniola, N. Conference and AGM in UMYUK C. Nwachukwu, Mr. Happy Ndom and Dr. Hope Okereke at the 6th NSM S/E Annual Zonal Symposium ABSU2019.

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MICROBIOLOGY AND ADVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY Being a summarized paper presented by Dr. (Mrs.) C. B. Chikere at the 6th South-East Zonal Symposium and Annual General Meeting “ABSU2019” of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) The history of rRNA, ITS) for microbial microbiology can be characterization traced to the year (metagenomics), 1675 when Anthony determination of their van-Leeuwenhoek response to perturbation first reported his (metatranscriptomics), observation about determination of their the oral microbiota. functions This initial report (metaproteomics) and has been the basis products of their for several interactions Dr. Chioma Blaise Chikere, MRSB technological (metabolomics). Senior Lecturer advances that have Environmental Microbiology & Bioremediation Division, Milestones from the been recorded in the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, current OMICS studies University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. study of include the treatment of microorganisms and their communities and their autism and gastrointestinal interactions with hosts or interactions was terribly tract infections in humans the environment. One of the impeded as only less than through microbiome major milestones during 1% could be cultured using transfer; Detection of the early stages of the available culture- microbial signatures of microbial studies was the dependent techniques. colorectal cancer; successful cultivation of However, the invention of Understanding of complex microorganisms using solid high through-put microbial interactions that culture media by Robert sequencing techniques, drive remediation; Koch in 1888. This which eliminate the need Discovery of biomarker breakthrough enabled the for cultivation, has taxa and pathways (Figs. 1 understanding of microbial revolutionized the study of and 2). Current physiology, however the microbes. Microorganisms microbiological revolution development of can now be studied in their came with its own microscopy revealed natural microenvironments challenges of handling big disparity in microbial and their functions data, requirements for numbers observed under a determined using multi- computational skills for microscope and those OMICs techniques. This data analyses and found on solid media. The involves the use of marker interpretation. Despite this study of microbial genes (16S rRNA, 18S complexity, life scientists

28 are encouraged to have a them carryout appropriate unearthing novel microbial good knowledge of experimental design for functions and products. computing so as to allow

Fig. 1: Novel approaches that enhance remediation of environmental pollutants.

Fig. 2: Beyond microbial ecology – the discovery of new biomolecules and biomarkers.

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NEWS FLASH FROM THE DESK OF THE NSM NATIONAL SECRETARIAT

NSM Micro-Register 2019 and 2020 period of two years (2017 The Secretariat is about to respectively, to pick them. through 2019): update the Micro-register of members on the Nigerian Journal North-West society’s website. of Microbiology Consequently, members Full-length articles can be Prof. S. A. Ado are enjoined to pay their submitted for consideration Prof. M. B. Yerima annual dues, as only up-to- in the official Journal of the

date members will be Nigerian Society for included on the list, which Microbiology titled North-Central will be assessable to all Nigerian Journal of institutions and Microbiology (NJM). The Prof. M. D. Makut organizations to verify any paper(s) should be saved Prof. S. O. Obiekezie one claiming to belong to with the surname of the first the society. The account author with NJM as prefix details of the society for and sent as an e-mail North-East your annual dues and other attachment to the editor-in- Alhaji Modu Bukar payments are as follows: chief, Prof. S. A. Ado, via Account Name: Nigerian e-mail address: Dr. E. Udosen Society for Microbiology [email protected]. Bank: Union Bank The Journal website could South-East Account Number: also be accessed via: 0007380241 www.nsmjournal.com Dr. E. S. Amadi

Membership News Flash! Dr. E. Archibong

Certificates The National Executive South-West The national secretariat has Council of the NSM at its a large number of Dr. D. Oluwole uncollected membership 2017 first quarter certificates. Members are meeting held on 11th Prof. D. Arotupin urged to come to the March, 2017, at the South-South Nigerian Society for Joseph Ayo Babalola Microbiology Scientific Dr. C. J. Ogugbue Conference and Annual University, Ikeji-Arakeji, General meeting coming up Osun State, approved the at Crawford University, appointment/reappointm Dr. Usman A. Dutsinma Igbesa, Ogun State and ent of the following as University of Port National Secretary, NSM Harcourt, Port Harcourt in zonal co-ordinators for a

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THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR

MICROBIOLOGY NEWSLETTER

Congratulates VCs

Prof. Julius Kolawole Oloke Prof. Olukayode Amund Precious Corner Stone Elizade University, Ilara- University, Ibadan, Oyo State Mokin, Ondo State

Prof. Deboye O. Kolawole Prof. Auwalu Uba, FNSM Prof. Diran Famurewa Crown-Hill University, Vice Chancellor, Bauchi Kings University, Ode-Omu, Eyenkorin, Ilorin, Kwara State University, Gadau Osun State www.nsm.ng.

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