PROFESSOR NDIDI C. NGWULUKA DELIVERS 109TH INAUGURAL LECTURE ON NATURAPOLYCEUTICS: THE SINE QUA NON OF DRUG DELIVERY

Professor Ndidi C. Ngwuluka from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Jos, Nigeria, delivered the 109th inaugural lecture to the University community at the Multi-Purpose Auditorium on the main campus, Bauchi Road, University of Jos, Plateau State, at 3:00 PM. The lecture, titled Naturapolyceutics: The Sine Qua Non of Drug Delivery, explored the role of natural polymers in pharmaceutical sciences.

Citation of Prof. Ndidi Ngwuluka being read

Prof. Ngwuluka explained that natural polyceutics is the art, science, and technology of using natural polymers in the formulation of medicines. Natural polymers are large, complex molecules produced by living organisms, such as proteins, carbohydrates, natural rubber, and more. These polymers are sourced from animals, plants, microorganisms, and algae. She outlined key processes involved in natural polymer use, including extraction, purification, modification, and characterization.

She further elaborated on how naturapolymers differ from synthetics: naturapolymers are biodegradable, whereas synthetics are not, as they are derived from chemical substances. Some examples of natural polymers include starch, gums and mucilage, pectin, gelatin, chitosan, collagen, pullulan, and xanthan gum. Prof. Ngwuluka also discussed how drug delivery occurs in the body, detailing how drugs dissolve and the time it takes for them to remain in the body.

In her lecture, Professor Ngwuluka highlighted the growing attention natural polymers have received in pharmaceutical applications due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and potential for controlled drug delivery. However, she also pointed out several challenges that can limit their effectiveness in certain applications, including: Variability in Source Material: Natural polymers can exhibit significant variability in their chemical composition, molecular weight, and physical properties depending on their source, extraction methods, and environmental conditions. This inconsistency can affect pharmaceutical formulations. Limited Mechanical Properties: Many natural polymers may lack the mechanical strength and flexibility required for certain applications, especially in structural or load-bearing roles, limiting their use in formulations that require robust materials. Poor Solubility:
Some natural polymers have limited solubility in common solvents, complicating their processing and formulation. This can hinder their ability to form stable solutions for drug delivery systems. Degradation and Stability: Some natural polymers are sensitive to environmental factors like temperature, moisture, and other conditions, which can lead to degradation over time, affecting the stability and efficiency of drug delivery systems. Regulatory Challenges: While obtaining regulatory approval for natural polymers may seem easier, concerns about their source, variability, and potential contaminants can pose regulatory obstacles. Cost and Availability: The extraction and purification processes for natural polymers can be costly and time-consuming. Additionally, fluctuations in the availability of raw materials can impact production consistency and cost-effectiveness.

Prof. Ngwuluka also discussed some of the challenges facing naturapolyceutics research in Nigeria, including: Inadequate Funding: Limited government funding often restricts the scope of research projects, and the private sector has been slow to invest in research and development, hindering innovation. Infrastructural Deficiencies: Many research institutes lack modern equipment and facilities necessary for successful research. Unreliable power supply further disrupts research activities. Brain Drain: Skilled researchers often seek better opportunities abroad, leading to a loss of valuable expertise. Additionally, limited incentives discourage researchers from pursuing academic careers in Nigeria.

Prof. Ngwuluka concluded her lecture by emphasizing that the field of naturapolyceutics offers a transformative advancement in drug delivery by leveraging natural polymers derived from renewable sources such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. She stressed that natural polymers are safer for the body compared to synthetic ones, as they are composed of materials closer to what humans naturally encounter. She also emphasized the importance of sustainable practices, ensuring that the benefits of these discoveries are shared with future generations. The integration of indigenous natural polymers into mainstream medicine, she noted, is just the beginning, promising a healthier and more sustainable future.

She expressed her gratitude to God Almighty for the privilege of conducting the research, to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, her family, friends, and colleagues, and everyone who contributed to the success of her research.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Joash Amupitan, explained the significance of inaugural lectures at academic institutions. He emphasized that such lectures showcase not just teaching but also research activities, highlighting the university’s role as a research institution. He encouraged other professors who have not yet delivered an inaugural lecture to do so, as it allows their research to be publicly recognized and globally known. Prof. Amupitan also congratulated the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and expressed hope for greater achievements in collaboration with the university management. The registrar, Dr. Rejoice Songden was represented at the event with other key University management officials either present or represented. Also, the former DVC Academics, Prof. Nelson Ochekpe and his wife, former Minister Sarah Ochekpe were present alongside some Deans, Senate Members and Heads of Departments.

Professional Opinion

In an interview with Pharm. Dr. Lohdip Domjul, Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Plateau State Chapter, he stated, “In our profession, our challenge has been to meet the drug needs of society. This lecture has exposed us to the fact that research is now being carried out to understand the raw materials used in drug manufacturing. It’s not just about obtaining the active pharmaceutical ingredient, but also understanding the excipients and delivery systems that guide the drug into the body. If the government can step in and create an environment for drug manufacturing in Nigeria, we have the raw materials and manpower, but we lack the technology, power, and funding. This could make drugs more affordable.”

Dr. Sean Asieba, a fellow of the West African Society and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, commented: “The focus of this lecture is for us to go back to nature, to capitalize on the natural resources we have and improve the pharmaceutical industry. We face many challenges, including reliance on foreign active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). By working with local resources, I believe products will be cheaper and more accessible.”

Student Perspectives

Daniel, a student from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, shared what he learned: “The lecture taught me how natural resources, like plants and animals, are used in medicine. I now understand how we should utilize the natural resources around us rather than relying on synthetics. I plan to apply this knowledge in my future work.”

Mary Odiba Ochego, another student, expressed how the lecture inspired her as a female pharmacist: “The lecture gave me a deeper understanding of my career and the path ahead. I learned about the importance of natural polymers in drug production and delivery systems. It also made me realize that natural polymers are safer for the human body compared to synthetics, which can cause health issues.”

Background

Prof. Ndidi C. Ngwuluka is the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Jos. A professor of Naturapolyceutics/Pharmaceutical Quality, she is the first female Dean of the faculty. Prof. Ngwuluka has over 20 years of experience in pharmacy practice, research, and development. She earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and completed her internship at the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development in Abuja in 1997. She went on to complete her master’s in Pharmaceutics at the University of Ibadan and a PhD from the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa.

Prof. Ngwuluka has held various leadership roles at the University of Jos, including departmental and faculty positions. She is a recipient of numerous awards, grants, and fellowships, including the TetFund National Research Fund and the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Environmental Research (MistraPharma). She has published over 50 research articles and supervised numerous students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Her professional memberships include the Nigerian Association of Pharmacists in Academia (NAPA), the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), the American Chemical Society (ACS), and the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS).