The Genetics, Genomics & Bioinformatics Department (GBBD)
at NABDA is unique, encompassing all facets of modern genetics and bioinformatics research. Trans-disciplinary research being conducted in our laboratories would lead to cures for human diseases; improvements to crop and livestock quality and yield; creation of new technologies with applications to medicine; agriculture; environment; and industry. Our capacity building activities cover both general and specialized topics in translational genetics and is designed to better acquaint scientists and clinicians with the tools and technologies of genetics and genomics.
Our Vision
To advance Genomics and Bioinformatics capacity and integration into agriculture, healthcare, environmental and industrial sectors for economic development
Our Mission
Is to Lead and Support Innovative Research and Development using Genomics and Bioinformatics to drive Scientific Discovery and Technological advancements.
Transforming Data Into Discovery that shape our World
OUR RESEARCH ACTIVITIES INCLUDE
• Biomedical Genetics: investigating genetic and environmental factors contributing to phenotypes with relevance to human health and disease.
• Computation and Bioinformatics: develop new approaches for the management, analysis, and modeling of large, complex data sets.
• Population and Quantitative Genetics: study of how genetic processes evolve to generate genetic variation in populations of organisms, and the effects on the patterning of variation within and between populations and species, and
• Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: focuses on the research and innovation for industrial enzymes, biologics and biosimilars production.
Our Divisions
GENOMICS DIVISION
The Division is focused on Advancing genomics research, applications and innovations. It encompasses a genome sequencing and analysis, bioinformatics and computational genomics.
A. Human and Animal Genomics Unit:Â
B. Phyto genetic Unit
C. Microbiome Unit
Bioinformatics Division
The Division Promotes the application of bioinformatics tools and data analysis to accelerate the discovery
A. Computational Biology Unit
B. Data Analysis Unit
Data Management & Repositories
The Division Provides infrastructures for curating bioinformatics data to support research for development activities in Nigeria
A. Bioinformatics Data Infrastructure Management
B. Bioinformatics Data Generation & Management
C. Bioinformatics Data Services
Director Genetics, Genomics & Bioinformatics
Dr. Ajenifujah-Solebo
Dr. Solebo is the Director of the Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics Department at the National Biotechnology Research & Development Agency (NBRDA). She holds a PhD in Microbiology with a specialization in Plant Biotechnology, an MSc in Food Technology, an MSc in Plant Biotechnology and Biosafety from Università Politecnicadelle Marche in Ancona, Italy. Dr. Ajenifujah-Solebo was a postdoctoral research scientist at Michigan State University’s Plant Biotechnology Resource and Outreach Centre (PBROC), she is one of ten African scientists trained in CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing for crop improvement by UC Davis and the African Orphan Crops Consortium (AOCC).
Dr. Ajenifujah-Solebo began her career as a Scientific Officer I at the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) in 2002. She was the pioneer head of the Collaborations and Linkages Unit, Desk Officer for the NABDA/IITA/USAID, Nigeria Agriculture and Biotechnology Project (NABP), to promote biotechnology awareness and development. As Principal Scientific Officer in the Agricultural Biotechnology Department, she established the plant biotechnology laboratory equipped with capabilities for modern biotechnology research and Temporary Immersion Bioreactor System (TIBS). This facility has significantly supported food security by developing protocols for in-vitro mass multiplication of pineapples, bananas, and plantains, providing vital planting materials to farmers.
As the current Director of Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics at NBRDA, she oversees research initiatives at the Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics Centre. Her current research projects include a CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing study aimed at enhancing pest resistance and extending shelf life in local tomato cultivars, in collaboration with ICGEB (New Delhi), with support from the Africa Plant Breeding Academy (AFPBA). She also heads the Nigerian Liaison Desk of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), representing Nigeria at ICGEB Board of Governors meetings and general coordination of ICGEB activities in Nigeria, focal person on the African Union-NEPAD Pan-African genome editing communication initiative, which seeks to advance sustainable agriculture by promoting genome editing applications in Africa.
She was appointed in 2019 as the Moderator for global discussions of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection of Living Modified Organisms (LMOs) by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Dr. Ajenifujah-Solebo has authored several scientific publications, including journal articles, book chapters, and conference proceedings. She actively participates in biotechnology and food science conferences, workshops, and technical meetings, both locally and internationally, and has contributed to capacity building by mentoring younger scientists and conducting training in molecular biology for food and agriculture applications.
Her professional affiliations include Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (FNIFST), the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (MBSN); the American Society of Microbiology (MASM); and the Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM). She is also a Member and current Secretary of the Society for the Conservation of Phytofuel and Allied Sciences (SCOPAS). Dr.Ajenifujah-Solebo is happily married with children, balancing her professional and family life with dedication and purpose.
OUR RESEARCH ACTIVITIES INCLUDE
- Â Population and Quantitative Genetics: study of how genetic processes evolve to generate genetic variation in populations of organisms, and the effects on the patterning of variation within and between populations and species, and
- Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: focuses on the research and innovation for industrial enzymes, biologics and biosimilars production.
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- Biomedical Genetics: investigating genetic and environmental factors contributing to phenotypes with relevance to human health and disease.
- Computation and Bioinformatics: develop new approaches for the management, analysis, and modeling of large, complex data sets.
We believe in harnessing the power of data-driven science to unlock new possibilities in biology and health. Whether you’re a researcher, student, or biotech startup, our tools and insights are designed to help you push the boundaries of what's possible.
Genetics | Genomics | Bioinformatics
Why It Matters
Precision Medicine:
Tailored treatments based on your genetic makeup
Disease Research:
Understanding genetic causes of cancer, rare diseases & more
Sustainable Agriculture:
Genetically informed solutions for food security
Biodiversity & Conservation:
Tracking species and protecting ecosystems
Forensics:
DNA fingerprinting, criminal investigations
Forensics:
DNA fingerprinting, criminal investigations
About Us
Future Outlook
The integration of genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics is driving innovation across life sciences. Advances in sequencing technologies and computational power are making it possible to explore the biological world with unprecedented detail, promising new solutions to global challenges in health, food security, and environmental sustainability.
Welcome to the World of Biotechnology
Let’s Build the Future of Genomics Together
Whether you're looking to collaborate, explore genomic data, or learn more about this exciting field, we're here to help. Explore our resources. Join our community. Shape the future.
