The National Universities Commission (NUC) has intensified efforts to promote biomedical research in Nigerian universities as part of efforts to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the sector and improve the global rankings of the nation's universities.

This is as it disclosed that Nigeria is the most prominent country in the world in the area of plant extract research due to the traditional background of herbal medicine.

The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof Julius Okojie who spoke at the Summit for the Promotion of Bio-Medical Research in Nigeria's Universities in Abuja, Thursday, said the commission continues to seek ways for greater interactions with the universities and discuss global and national challenges.

Plants extract research, he said provide a huge opportunity to develop Nigeria's pharmaceutical sector and economic opportunities for those who plant the trees.