DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT SENATOR BARAU I. JIBRIN HONOURED WITH “PILLAR OF MICROBIOLOGY IN NIGERIA” AWARD.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu – Democracy Newsline Newspaper
September 17, 2025
In a remarkable testament to his unwavering commitment to national development and professional excellence, the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has been honoured with the prestigious “Pillar of Microbiology in Nigeria” award by the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM).
The highly anticipated event took place during the 47th Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Society, held in the historic city of Calabar, Cross River State. The conference brought together distinguished scientists, microbiologists, academic researchers, industry professionals, and students from across the country to deliberate on cutting-edge developments in the field and the advancement of microbial sciences in Nigeria.
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Senator Barau, described by the NSM as a “Pillar of Professionalisation of Microbiology in Nigeria”, was recognized for his exceptional leadership, strategic advocacy, and consistent contributions to the legislative advancement of science and research in Nigeria.
According to the President of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology, Professor Florence Ibekwe, the award was conferred in recognition of Senator Barau’s outstanding support for policies that promote scientific research, his advocacy for capacity building in scientific disciplines, and his steadfast commitment to empowering professional bodies through legislation and collaboration.
In a symbolic coincidence, the award ceremony came just one day after Senator Barau was conferred with a Fellowship by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), underlining a week of well-deserved recognitions for his broad contributions to Nigeria’s professional and academic sectors.
Due to his participation in national duties, Senator Barau was ably represented by his Special Adviser on Policy and Monitoring, Professor Bashir Muhammad Fagge, who received the award on his behalf. In his remarks, Professor Fagge conveyed the Senator’s deep appreciation to the Nigerian Society for Microbiology and conveyed his message:
“Senator Barau I. Jibrin is humbled and deeply honoured by this recognition. He extends his heartfelt gratitude to the NSM – a society made up of top-class microbiologists, researchers, scientists, and scholars – for their work in advancing scientific excellence in Nigeria. This award only deepens his resolve to support professional bodies and continue fostering policies that drive innovation, research, and sustainable development.”
Senator Barau reaffirmed his commitment to supporting institutions like NSM and ANAN, stating that such bodies are vital to national progress. He emphasized that his office remains open to collaboration with professional organisations to create an environment where science, accountability, and innovation flourish.
The honour by the NSM not only celebrates Senator Barau’s past contributions but also signals confidence in his visionary leadership and progressive engagement with Nigeria’s academic and professional sectors.
Observers see these recognitions as an encouraging indication of how legislative leadership can play a crucial role in nation-building through meaningful partnerships with professional institutions.
As Nigeria continues to seek solutions to public health challenges, food security, environmental protection, and bio-industrial development — all of which intersect with microbiology — Senator Barau’s commitment to strengthening the field is a beacon of hope.
His consistent recognition by prestigious professional bodies is a reflection of his broad impact across sectors and a sign that excellence in leadership and policy-making can inspire transformation at all levels of society.
The Nigerian Society for Microbiology is the premier professional body for microbiologists in Nigeria. It promotes excellence in microbiological research, teaching, and professional practice to address national and global challenges.
