A don in the Faculty of Biosciences at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, one name Dr. Chinwendu Ozoh, said she has embarked on series of researches in a bid to improve healthcare delivery as well as boost food security in the country.
Ozoh, a leading voice in the Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing at UNIZIK, has become a beacon of excellence, innovation, and community service.
She spoke to journalists during her 2025 groundbreaking study/research analysis, titled, ‘Phytochemical and antioxidant profiles of indigenous Nigerian plants’ using – Cassia alata, Ficussaussureana, Momordicacharantia, and Moringaoleifera.
She noted that through research, the benefit of plant-based therapeutics and traditional medicine were strong revealed.
Ozoh said through her community-centric research on the microbial safety of locally produced soymilk, fermented beverages, and sanitation standards in smoked fish processing, she has directly enhanced food quality awareness and public health standards across Anambra State and beyond.
She added that her “profligacy” is also notable in her 2024 investigation into the sensory and nutritional differences between fermented and unfermented beetroot ginger garlic beverages, a pioneering fusion of food science and public health nutrition.
In this new research, she examined the biochemical effects of various palm wine varieties, emphasising the intersection of indigenous consumption and microbial health.
She said her mission is to foster the next generation of microbiologists, equipped them to tackle Nigeria’s complex health and food safety issues, adding that through rigorous research, dedicated teaching, and passionate community engagement, she is actively bringing this vision to life.
According to her, her earlier research — from exploring the antibiotic potential of Aspergillus species isolated from sewage to assessing the impact of packaging and shelf life on smoked fish —highlighted her enduring commitment in addressing real world issues through microbiological excellence with her influence extending well beyond the laboratory.
“Through community-centric research on the microbial safety of locally produced soymilk, fermented beverages, and sanitation standards in smoked fish processing, my research has directly enhanced food quality awareness and public health standards across Anambra State and beyond.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative demonstrated profound humanitarian spirit by leading the production of hand sanitisers and liquid soaps, which were distributed across primary and secondary schools in Awka North.
“Presently, as a Staff Adviser to the National Association of Microbiology and Brewing Students, I have continued to shape future leaders while contributing extensively to faculty committees, curriculum development and mentorship,” she added.
Ozoh said, “My mission is to foster the next generation of microbiologists, equipped them to tackle Nigeria’s complex health and food safety issues.
“Through rigorous research, dedicated teaching, and passionate community engagement, she is actively bringing this vision to life.”
