Prof. Miriam Unachukwu Unveils the Invisible Overlords Shaping Our Health!

Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, has recorded its 18th Inaugural Lecture, delivering a powerful message on the role of microbes in global health and disease trends.

The lecture, delivered by Professor Dr. Mrs. Miriam Nneka Unachukwu, Deputy Provost of the College of Medicine, was titled “Microbes: The Invisible Overlords in Global Health and Disease Trends.” She highlighted how microbes, both beneficial and harmful, play a major role in shaping global health outcomes, noting that infections like HIV, tuberculosis, and COVID-19 originate from harmful microbes. She emphasized hygiene, including regular hand washing, as a simple but effective way to reduce their impact.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke congratulated Professor Unachukwu and described inaugural lectures as a vital part of the university’s academic identity. He stated that our understanding of the microbiome bacteria that make up over 60% of the human body has become increasingly important. He further reaffirmed the university’s commitment to microbiological research and excellence in the sciences.

Also present was the Pro-Chancellor of Shanahan University, Prof. Pat Utomi, who expressed deep appreciation to the management of Godfrey Okoye University for nurturing his cousin, Prof. Unachukwu. He used the platform to reflect on Nigeria’s national priorities, noting that the country’s major mistake is its failure to understand the centrality of education and health to national progress. He warned that without getting it right in these sectors, the country would remain stuck.

Prof. Utomi also acknowledged the historical impact of the Catholic Church in shaping Western civilization and called for its legacy to be sustained.

The event was a rich blend of intellectual engagement and national reflection, underlining the university’s growing impact on health and academic research.