Unilorin, RTSL, SON collaborate on lead poisoning prevention
….RTSL donates XRF analyzer to boost research
By Tajudeen Babamale
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has described the partnership between the University, Resolve to Save Life (RTSL), and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) on lead poisoning prevention as a significant step towards ensuring a safer and healthier environment for all Nigerians.
Prof. Egbewole made this known last Monday (November 10, 2025), while receiving a team from the RTSL led by its Executive Director, Mrs Nanlop Ogbureke, in his office. The team was at the University to reaffirm the organisation’s commitment to supporting UNILORIN’s research excellence and Nigeria’s public health goals.
The visit also marked the official announcement and release of a portable X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer to the University for use by the Dr Adewale George Adeniyi-led research team, which is currently conducting an RTSL-sponsored project on lead (Pb) poisoning monitoring and evaluation in cosmetics.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare-Odunola, the Vice Chancellor said that the University of Ilorin is proud to be part of the collaborative initiative that brings together academia, regulatory agencies, and advocacy groups in the pursuit of a common goal of promoting environmental safety and public health.
The Vice Chancellor observed that the choice of the University of Ilorin as a partner in the initiative reflects its consistent record of excellence and dedication to national development. He added that the collaboration aligns with the University’s vision of addressing issues that impact the lives of ordinary citizens through applied research and innovation.
On behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, staff, and students of the University community, Prof. Egbewole expressed appreciation to the team from Resolve to Save Life for their unwavering commitment to improving public health and environmental safety across Nigeria.
He also commended Dr Adewale George Adeniyi, the most ranked researcher from the University on Scopus (h-index) with 254 documents, and his research team for their leadership in advancing this impactful initiative. He reaffirmed Unilorin’s commitment to partnerships that drive innovation, public safety, and sustainable development.
Speaking earlier, the Executive Director of RTSL in Nigeria, Mrs Nanlop Ogbureke, explained that the organisation’s decision to partner the University of Ilorin was a deliberate and strategic one. Mrs Ogbureke noted that the University’s strong research track record, consistent commitment to public health, and active engagement with local communities and national organisations such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) made it an ideal partner for the collaborative initiative.
The RTSL boss explained that effective solutions to complex public health challenges require partnerships that connect academic research, government policy, and development outcomes. She stated that such collaborations create sustainable systems capable of addressing environmental and health concerns through evidence-based actions and innovation.
To support the ongoing research, the Executive Director announced that Resolve to Save Lives is providing a portable X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer to the University for the duration of the study. She explained that the equipment enables accurate and non-destructive testing of samples, and would empower the University’s research team to produce high-quality data that will guide Nigeria’s response to lead exposure and contamination.
She further noted that lead poisoning remains one of the most serious yet preventable environmental health challenges in Nigeria. According to her, exposure to lead whether from paints, contaminated soil, dust, or consumer products poses grave risks, particularly to children and women of reproductive age.
Mrs Ogbureke expressed optimism that the engagement would mark the beginning of a long-term and mutually beneficial partnership between RTSL and the University of Ilorin, one that would extend beyond the current study into joint research, capacity building, and broader public health interventions.
