Christian Happi: Global Expert in Infectious Disease Genes Named Among the 100 Most Influential for 2025

Christian Happi, an eminent professor specializing in molecular biology and the genomics of infectious diseases at Redeemer’s University, has been included in the 2025 TIME100 list, which ranks the globe’s most impactful individuals as chosen byTIME magazine.

He received the Hallmarks Of Labour Foundation (HLF) Role Model Award for his exceptional contributions to science, placing him alongside esteemed HLF role models such as Dr Akinwumi Adesina, Prof. Oyewale Tomori, and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, amongst others.

Happi, who also founded the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH), was part of the 2025 TIME100 list alongside notable figures such as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Serena Williams, J.D. Vance, Muhammad Yunus, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Duma Boko, Mo Abudu, Simone Biles, Mark Zuckerberg, Snoop Dogg, Kwame Onwuachi, and more.

Dr. Happi has spearheaded groundbreaking research in genomic studies of infectious diseases and immediate outbreak responses in Africa, focusing on illnesses such as COVID-19, Mpox, and Ebola. Over more than ten years, he has educated countless front-line researchers throughout Africa and established an exceptional genetic analysis center in a remote part of Nigeria.

In 2014, he identified the initial instance of Ebola in Nigeria and collaborated intensively with national 

healthcare bodies to effectively control the epidemic.

Nigeria's battle against cancer receives an enhancement following NICRAT training for researchers in the Southwest region. HOPE: A 'transformative' therapy for prostate issues without impacting sexual function remains unchanged. States like Rivers and Benue lead with the highest number of HIV cases in Nigeria.

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 research has helped save lives, shaped international public health approaches, and aided in the development of diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccines.

The statement released by the university read, "His research has helped save lives, shaped worldwide public health approaches, and aided in the creation of diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccines, amongst other areas."

Happi stated that this acknowledgment represented a significant personal achievement and a source of pride for both the institution and the country of Nigeria as a whole.

This TIME100 acknowledgment represents both a personal achievement and an occasion for great pride for IGH, Redeemer’s University in Ede, Nigeria, as well as numerous academic and research institutions throughout Africa.

"It highlights the crucial part played by African scientists and institutions in tackling some of the world's most pressing health issues," he stated.

Prof. Shadrach Akindele, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, stated that this acknowledgment serves as more than just a prize; it signifies that his efforts have achieved international recognition.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).