The Director General of the Kano Independent Research Centre Trust (KIRCT), Prof. Hamisu Salihu, has announced that with the recent installation of cutting-edge technologies in the health sector, Kano is poised to become a leading hub for advanced medical research and treatment in Nigeria.
Prof. Salihu made this statement on Tuesday during a facility tour at the Centre’s headquarters in Kwanar Dawaki, Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area.
The research center is now equipped with state-of-the-art machines for scientific research, diagnostic analysis, and evolving medical practices.
Highlighting a key innovation, he noted that the acquisition of the Next Gen 2000 sequencing machine—one of the most advanced genomic tools- will significantly enhance the Centre’s capacity to support breast cancer patients.
The technology enables the precise identification of cancer types, allowing for targeted and personalized treatment plans, which can greatly improve patient outcomes.
“Our Next Gen 2000 Sequencing Machine, the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria, can determine the genotype of all cancer types.
“This allows us to align treatment strategies based on genetic information, marking a breakthrough in cancer care and survival rates,” Prof. Salihu explained.
He further stated that additional advanced tools such as the MI SEQ 1100+, B2 Solo – DNA system, KIRCK Next 2K, and pharmacogenomics capabilities have elevated Kano’s healthcare system.
These technologies enable a deeper understanding of diseases at the molecular level and support precision medicine by tailoring treatments to individual patients.
“We are ushering in a new generation of healthcare providers in Kano, trained to deliver optimized and personalized care.
“Pharmacogenomics allows us to move away from one-size-fits-all treatments to customized therapies designed for each person’s genetic profile,” he said.
Prof. Salihu emphasized the transformative potential of this shift, comparing it to the emergence of artificial intelligence: “Just like AI, this technological leap is here to stay.
“Embracing it is essential for advancing medical research, diagnosis, and treatment—our way of contributing to Kano and the nation’s healthcare future.”
He also noted that these advancements are yielding economic benefits, helping conserve funds, boost the state’s revenue potential, and improve the overall healthcare delivery ecosystem in Kano and across Nigeria.
The tour also included a look at several high-tech installations at the facility, such as a biosafety cabinet, a modern incinerator, and a state-of-the-art patients’ ward equipped with advanced medical beds and diagnostic tools.
Prof. Salihu revealed that national health authorities, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), have acknowledged KIRCT’s achievements.
“Plans are underway for NCDC staff and other federal agencies to undergo training at the Centre, as part of efforts to introduce a national genomics surveillance system,” he added.
He highlighted the facility’s clinic wing, where patients already benefit from the full array of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services the Centre now offers.
