Ahmadu Bello University, Shenzhen Technology University, and AMA Medical Manufacturing Ltd have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote the study of biomedical sciences, artificial intelligence, and other related disciplines.
A statement from the Public Affairs Directorate Office of the VC said the MOU signing took place in Shenzhen in China this week with Nigeria’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency, Lt. Gen Abdulrahman Bello Danbazau, CFR, in attendance.
According to the tripartite deal, Ahmadu Bello University will provide a strong academic and research foundation, while Shenzhen Technology University will contribute substantial technological expertise.
On its own part, AMA Medical Manufacturing will focus on translating research outcomes into local manufacturing and commercial applications in Nigeria.
The partnership will give particular emphasis on the development of pharmaceutical and vaccines tailored to Nigeria’s needs, clinical research in Nigeria, talent development and exchange.
It will also promote commercial cooperation in local manufacturing, packaging and distribution, as well as the development of biomedical research infrastructure at Ahmadu Bello University.
The event represents a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria-China cooperation in healthcare, biotechnology, research, technology transfer and human capital development.
It also aligns with the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) through which Nigeria and China continue to deepen cooperation in public health, pharmaceutical manufacturing and capacity building.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency, Lt. Gen Abdulrahman Bello Danbazau, described the initiative as the kind of partnership he consistently advocated for.
The envoy believed in a purposeful partnership that brings together academia, research, and industry to move knowledge from the laboratory into practical manufacturing and solutions for society.
The Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof Adamu Ahmed; and the Chairman, AMA Medical Manufacturing, Prof Abdulsalami Nasidi, signed the partnership documents on behalf of the Nigerian university and pharmaceutical firm respectively.
The Chinese university was represented by the Chair, Academic Committee of the Institute for Global Health and Microbiome; and Chair, Academic Committee of the Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
They also included the former Director General, Chinese Centre for Diseases Control and Prevention; President of Shenzhen Technology University; and Secretary of the Party Committee of the Chinese university.
