On Thursday, 11th February 2016, the Sussex Nigerian Society hosted Professor Isa Hussaini Marte, a Professor of Pharmacology, University of Maiduguri, a visiting Professor, University of Virginia, USA and a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science.
In an event titled “Meet the Nigerian Scientist” organised by the Society, Professor Isa discussed with the Nigerian students in Sussex about their discovery of Nigerian traditional herbs that show substantial efficacy against cancer, better than the currently used cancer drugs.
He described to our community how he moved to the US in the late 90’s after his Ph.D. and eventually developed to a competent scientist that received over $5 million of research funds for research into cancer.
Prof. Isa came to the University of Sussex on invitation by the School of Lifesciences of the University, to present his team’s discovery of the potential anti-cancer traditional herbs.
On Friday, 12th February, he was received warmly by the Vice – Chancellor of the University of Sussex, the Head of School of Lifesciences and other Professors, following which he was given a gift by the Vice – Chancellor.
Later in the Friday evening, Professor Isa delivered his research findings at the University’s Genome Damage and Stability Centre to experts and young scientists, in a talk that was brilliantly fascinating, titled – “Exploitation of medicinal plant compounds in the search for novel cancer therapeutic agents.”.
His talk explained how his team investigate the scientific rationale for the tradition uses of Nigerian Medicinal plants.
How they now discover novel plants with anti-cancer properties.
They have isolated and characterised the compounds from these plant sources and tested them against many cancer cell lines.
He said “We are working to develop cancer therapy from Nigerian traditional plants. We have conducted an extensive screening of many plants with anti-cancer properties, tested them in cell and animal models. Our research has created an evidence base to demonstrate that eight naturally growing medicinal plants in Nigeria have strong anti-cancer properties, especially against breast cancer.”
Professor Isa also praised the “world-class facilities” at the University of Sussex and discussed possible collaboration with the School of Lifesciences regarding research.
The Nigerian Ag. High Commissioner in London, also attended Professor Isa’s research talk and was very impressed that such research is conducted in Nigeria.
He praised Professor Isa and encouraged him to continue his research as it shows promise for solving world problem and positively influences the global reputation of Nigeria.
The Ag. High Commissioner also held a Question and Answer session over Lunch with the Nigerian students in Sussex where he advised them to work hard in their studies and acquire useful skills that can drive the development of Nigeria.
Inspired by Prof. Isa’s talk, the Sussex Nigeria Society have launched a campaign to raise money for the Breast Cancer Association of Nigerian “BRECAN” to help disadvantaged women access free clinical breast examination and towards BRECAN’s awareness-raising campaigns.
Details of Professor Isa’s visit has been published in the weekly bulletin of the University of Sussex “Nigerian High Commissioner & cancer specialist visit Sussex.

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Nice