Ghanaian Firm Seeks Partnership With FUTO on Cancer Research

A Ghana-based Clinical Research Organisation, Optima Clinical, has sought partnership with the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) to advance clinical research and contribute to improving cancer treatment and patient outcomes in Africa.

The development followed a visit to the University on Monday, August 17, 2026 by a delegation led by the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Optima Clinical, Dr Yaw Asare-Aboagye, and facilitated by the Managing Director of FUTO Consult Limited, Prof. Obiajulu Emejulu.

Dr Asare-Aboagye, whose organisation works with the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), expressed concern about the growing burden of cancer in Africa, and emphasised the need for generating locally relevant clinical evidence that would inform healthcare interventions and improve patient care.

The University of Ibadan-trained Vet Doctor said collaborating with an established academic and research institution such as FUTO would provide an important platform for advancing clinical research and generating evidence capable of contributing to improved outcomes for cancer patients in Africa.

According to him, the proposed research and implementation trials would be undertaken on a pro bono basis, with the broader objective of contributing to the search for more effective approaches to cancer treatment.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. I.N.S. Dozie expressed appreciation for the interest in collaborating with FUTO.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Development and Innovation), Prof. E.B. Etuk, the Vice-Chancellor described the proposed partnership as a strategic opportunity for FUTO to expand its research partnerships and contribute its expertise to addressing one of Africa's major health challenges.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the proposed collaboration aligns with the University's growing emphasis on research, development, innovation, and strategic collaboration with institutions, particularly in the global south.

He acknowledged the role of FUTO Consult, under Prof. Emejulu, in facilitating the visit, and expressed the hope that similar partnerships and opportunities would continue to emerge from the University's engagement with external stakeholders.