UNILORIN Biochemistry training enhances my career in Customs Service- Yunusa
By Mustafa Abubakar
A 2006 graduate of the Department of Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, and Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Mrs AB Yunusa, has described her training at the University as invaluable to her career in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), particularly in the identification, examination and classification of imported chemical products.
Mrs Yunusa stated this penultimate Saturday (September 26, 2026) in an interview with the UNILORIN Bulletin, during the activities marking the 20th anniversary of her set. She explained that the scientific knowledge acquired during her undergraduate studies had continued to prove useful in her professional career.
Describing Biochemistry at UNILORIN as a “very noble course”, Mrs Yunusa commended the quality of training and facilities provided by the University, noting that the programme exposed students to Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry and Microbiology in addition to biochemical processes. She explained that her scientific background became particularly useful after she joined the Nigeria Customs Service in 2009, where she was involved in issues relating to the examination and classification of imported products.
Mrs Yunusa expressed her readiness to support the Department through mentorship, knowledge sharing and sponsorship of outstanding students. “I’m ready to bring back mentorship to our students. I’m also ready to bring back some kind of sponsorship to outstanding students in Biochemistry,” she said.
She advised students to seek clarification from their lecturers whenever they encountered difficulties in their studies rather than allowing gaps in their knowledge to persist.
Mrs Yunusa also encouraged students to look beyond the perception that Biochemistry is not marketable, noting that the discipline has applications in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, food processing, cosmetics and other sectors.
She urged members of the Class of 2006 to continue supporting their alma mater by contributing their knowledge, experience and resources to the development of the University. She said the value of university education extends beyond obtaining certificates, stressing that graduates should apply the knowledge acquired from their institutions to address professional and societal challenges.
