Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Director General of the Kano Independent Research Centre Trust (KIRCT), Prof. Hamisu Salihu, has announced that Kano is positioning itself as the next hub for advanced medical treatment and research, following the installation of cutting-edge technologies in its health sector.
Prof. Salihu made this known on Tuesday during a tour of the Centre’s state-of-the-art facility located at Kwanar Dawaki in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of Kano State. The centre is equipped with modern machines designed for research, diagnosis, analysis, and other evolving aspects of medical science.
He revealed that the Centre’s latest acquisition, the Next Gen 2000 Sequencing Machine, is the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria. This machine, according to him, enables the detection of the specific genotype of various types of cancer, particularly breast cancer, allowing for precise and personalized treatment plans that can significantly improve patient survival rates.
“Our Next Gen 2000 Sequencing Machine detects the genotype of every kind of cancer. This breakthrough helps us tailor treatment to individual patients based on the specific genetic profile of their illness,” he explained.
Prof. Salihu added that other sophisticated machines, including the MI SEQ 1100+, B2 Solo – DNA, and KIRCT Next 2K, along with the Centre’s pharmacogenomics processes, are transforming healthcare delivery in Kano. He emphasized that the state has moved beyond outdated medical practices, now focusing on understanding diseases at the genetic level and applying personalized therapies.
“We are ushering in the next generation of healthcare providers in Kano, delivering optimized, individualized medical care. With pharmacogenomics, we no longer treat symptoms alone—we treat the person based on their genetic makeup,” he said.
Drawing parallels with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Prof. Salihu stressed that these technologies are here to stay. “This is our contribution to improving diagnosis, treatment, and research—not just in Kano but across Nigeria.”
He noted that these advancements are helping the state conserve healthcare costs, increase revenue opportunities, and enhance the overall healthcare delivery ecosystem.
The Director General also disclosed that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and other federal health agencies have endorsed the Centre’s work. Plans are underway to train their personnel at the facility in preparation for the launch of a genomics surveillance system in Nigeria.
During the facility tour, journalists were shown the high-tech Biosafety Cabinet, a modern incinerator, and the Centre’s fully equipped patients’ ward. The clinic wing, according to Salihu, offers direct patient care by leveraging the numerous sophisticated tools available at the Centre.
He concluded by reiterating KIRCT’s commitment to placing Kano on the global map of health innovation, stating, “We are not just making progress; we are leading a revolution in medical science from Northern Nigeria.”
