The Federal Government, in recognition of their research and innovations, has granted patent rights to some academic staff of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
In a statement signed by the university’s Director of Media and Publicity, Ibrahim Sheme, NOUN said the patents highlight its growing reputation as a hub for solution-driven education.
Leading the awardees is Dr Musa Runde of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, who, in collaboration with colleagues across different faculties and institutions, secured two separate patents.
One of the inventions, a Haeme Detector for Postpartum Haemorrhage Patients, was developed by Dr Runde alongside Dr Adaobi Mac-Ozigbo (Business Administration), Dr Oyewole Oyelami Abiodun (Mathematics), and Mrs Eunice Olokona Opeyemi (Nursing Sciences).
The device is designed to aid in the rapid detection and management of postpartum haemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal mortality. It has the potential to reduce preventable maternal deaths in Nigeria and beyond significantly. “The second patent is Method for the Extraction of Essential Oils Using Steam Extractor Coupled with Highly Efficient Cooling System,” NOUN said.
The patent was awarded to Dr. Musa Runde (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science), Dr. Akeem B. Disu (Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science), Prof. Monioluwa Olaniyi (Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science), Dr. Gimba Usman (Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science), and Dr. Oria Vincent (National Research Institute for Chemical Technology, Zaria, Kaduna State).
“This innovation presents an advanced technique for extracting essential oils through a steam extractor integrated with a highly efficient cooling system. With applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food industry, the invention offers a cost-effective and sustainable approach to essential oil production,” the statement added.
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