The 16th annual conference of Mycotoxicology Society of Nigeria (MSN) on Tuesday opened in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The 4-day conference and workshop is tagged Mycotoxins’ impact on One Health, Management Strategies and Gender Inclusiveness.
In her welcome address, the national president of MSN, Dr Yemisi Jeff-Agboola, who is an associate professor at the Ondo based University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), appreciated the participants for turning up for the event, which is being held at the A&T Hotel in Akure.
Dr Jeff-Agboola expressed optimism that new grounds would be broken at the end of the conference, which according to her would add value to the profession.
“Our field is ever-evolving and it is incumbent upon us to remain at the forefront of innovation. Let us push the boundaries of what is known and explore untapped avenues in mycotoxicology. Through rigorous inquiry and open-minded exploration, we have the power to pioneer solutions that will have a lasting impact on public health and safety.
“Furthermore, let us not forget the broader implications of our work. The knowledge we cultivate here has the potential to transform industries, influence policy and safeguard the well-being of communities worldwide.
“As we embark on this conference, let us be inspired by th potential for progress that lies before us. Together, we are shaping a future where the threat of mycotoxins is met with knowledge, expertise and determination, Dr Jeff-Agboola submitted.
She also used the opportunity of the event to remember one of the founding fathers in the field of mycotoxins in Nigeria, Late Prof. Olusegun Atanda.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, represented by Dr Abayomi Logo, welcomed the participants to Ondo State.
The Commissioner informed the participants to brainstorm on ideas that will further better the society.
He enjoined them to also take advantage of the hospitable environment in the State, adding that the State is safe.
Also speaking, the Director, Centre for Gender and Health Equity at UNIMED, Prof. Nireti Duyilemi who stood in for the Vice Chancellor of UNIMED, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi, disclosed that the institution is always ready to partner bodies or associations that share similar vision with UNIMED.
Dignitaries at the flag off of the 4-day conference include board members of the MSN. They are, Prof. Stephen Fapohunda, founding president of MSN; Dr Folashade Oluwabamiwo; Dr Margaret Esshiet and Dr Abdullahi Ndarubu among others.
Precision Online Newspaper spoke with some of the participants on their expectations at the end of the conference.
A participant from Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IART), Ibadan, Patrick Emerua noted that there are some mycotoxins that affects animal nutrition and he expects at the end of the session, solutions to such challenges would be proffered.
Dr Yinka Oluwafemi, chairperson of the local organising committee and a UNIMED staff, noted that the session would encourage scientists to become more conscious of the impact of mycotoxins on some of the things we consume as individuals, while providing solutions to them.
Prof. Emmanuel Ewuola from the University of Ibadan in his own view, disclosed that the annual conference is to further create awareness among scientists about mycotoxins and its effects.
“Mycotoxin is a major issue which can retard growth. A lot of liver damage issue can be traced to toxins. We believe if there’s awareness, we can mitigate the problems associated with mycotoxins. Everyone that has been invited here is expected to contribute immensely to the topic and providing solutions to threats posed by mycotoxins,” he said.
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