In Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), a team of Nigerian scientists has made a breakthrough that could reshape global cancer research. The researchers have discovered potent anti-cancer properties in a local plant extract, showing remarkable effectiveness against glioblastoma multiforme, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer.
Dr. Amina Jega, named Best Female Researcher in STEM at UDUS in 2023, explained that the discovery began with screenings conducted in the United States. “We screened the plant first in the US, where we found it could kill cancer cell lines, especially glioblastoma multiforme,” she said.
Further analysis revealed that the plant extract was not limited to brain cancer alone. The compounds demonstrated activity against other cancers, including leukemia, cervical cancer, and breast cancer. “We tried to screen the plant against different types of cancers,” Dr. Jega said, “and the results were very promising.”
The project has been supported by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), which provided financial backing for expanded research. The team also showcased their findings at the TETFund Expo in November 2024, drawing international interest.
Despite these achievements, lead researcher Prof. Musa Abdullahi noted that the research still faces challenges. “We met researchers from around the world, but uptake has been an issue. Perhaps we need to do more to publicise our findings,” he admitted.
The UDUS team went beyond preliminary testing to isolate the active compounds responsible for the anti-cancer effects. “We were able to identify each of the active constituents that target brain cancer,” Dr. Jega confirmed.
Safety testing has also been conducted, with encouraging results. “We tested the plant for long-term toxicity in animals, and the extract was found to be moderately safe,” Dr. Jega explained.
However, the research has not yet advanced to human trials. “This is the next stage we are taking it to,” she added. “For now, we have tested it in vitro and in animals with very positive results.”
While still in the development phase, the discovery offers hope for more affordable, natural cancer treatments, particularly in regions where advanced therapies remain out of reach. If successful, the plant extract could evolve from a local finding in Sokoto to a global life-saving therapy.
“This plant may travel from the soils of Nigeria to save lives across the world,” Prof. Abdullahi said.
