By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
Nigerian scientist Prof. Christian Happi, a renowned expert in Molecular Biology and Genomics of Infectious Diseases, has been recognized as one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine.
Happi, who is associated with Redeemer’s University in Ede, Osun State, joins an elite group of global leaders, scientists, artists, and changemakers who are shaping the world’s future.
According to a statement by Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, Deputy Director of Corporate Affairs at the university, Happi’s ranking is a testament to his groundbreaking work in infectious disease genomics and innovations for real-time outbreak response in Africa. As the founding Director of the Institute of Genomics and Global Health at the university, Happi has led pioneering efforts in this field for over a decade.
Some of his notable achievements include confirming the first case of Ebola in Nigeria in 2014 and working closely with Nigerian health authorities to contain the outbreak. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Happi used next-generation sequencing technology to perform the first sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in Africa within 48 hours of receiving the sample.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, he used next-generation sequencing technology to perform the first sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in Africa within 48 hours of receiving the sample. His work has saved lives, informed global public health strategies, and contributed to developing diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines, among others,” the statement read.
Happi’s recognition is not just a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for the university and Nigeria as a whole. “This TIME100 recognition is a personal milestone and a moment of pride for IGH, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Nigeria, and academic and research institutions across the African continent. It shines a global spotlight on African scientists and institutions’ vital role in addressing some of the world’s most urgent health challenges,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Shadrach Akindele, congratulated Happi on this achievement, stating that it is not just a reward but an indicator that his work has gained global acceptance. Happi is ranked alongside prominent figures such as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Serena Williams, J.D. Vance, Muhammad Yunus, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and Duma Boko, among others.
