Kaduna State University (KASU) hosted the Early Career Life Scientists (ECLS) Conference 2025 from Tuesday, 6th to Wednesday, 7th May 2025. The Chairman of the Logistics and Welfare Subcommittee, Mrs. Naomi Bitrus David, stated that the theme, “Translational Cancer Research: Bridging the Gap from Bench to Bedside,” highlighted the importance of transforming research into practical solutions to address the rising cancer burden in Nigeria. Key challenges discussed included late diagnosis, inadequate care, and poor infrastructure.
The conference, organized by early career life scientists, aimed to empower participants to develop sustainable, locally driven health solutions. Mrs. David expressed gratitude to the sponsors, KASU leadership, distinguished speakers, delegates, and the organizing team, concluding with a call for collaboration to drive impactful change.
Prof. Abdullahi I. Musa, Vice Chancellor of KASU, officially opened the conference, commending the organizers, keynote speakers, and attendees. He emphasized the significance of education and addressed the pressing issue of cancer in Nigeria.
Prof. Tajudeen Ayodeji Olasinde from the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, presented on “The Future of Translational Cancer Research: Prospects and Challenges,” highlighting Nigeria’s increasing cancer burden, with 127,763 new cases and 79,542 deaths reported in 2022. He underscored the importance of early diagnosis and outlined available treatment options, while stressing the need for collaboration and innovation to overcome challenges such as limited funding and inadequate infrastructure.
Dr. Lyndy McGaw from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, discussed the potential of ethnoveterinary medicine in anticancer research, emphasizing the integration of traditional knowledge and local plants to enhance health outcomes. She highlighted the importance of collaborating with traditional healers to unlock the therapeutic potential of these plants.
In her session on “Lessons of Professional Development in the Rapidly Evolving Domain of the Life Sciences,” Prof. Helen O. Kwanashie of the National Open University of Nigeria stressed the importance of continuous learning and adaptability for career success, recommending networking and mentorship as key strategies.
Dr. Asma’u Ismail-Junaidu Bashir, a staff member of KASU, presented on “Targeted Cancer Therapy,” discussing its transformative impact on treatment through the precision targeting of cancer cells. She reviewed various types of targeted therapies and highlighted ongoing research aimed at overcoming challenges such as drug resistance.
The conference featured networking opportunities and poster viewing at the university library, along with oral presentations by abstract presenters. Additionally, a breakout session for a CV/resumé clinic and a scientific workshop was held. An award presentation, spearheaded by Ahmed Danbala Ahmed, Chairman of the Scientific Subcommittee, recognized the best oral and poster presentations. The event concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Kenneth Bitrus David, Chairman of the Planning Committee and Head of the Publicity and Sponsorship Subcommittee.