At the recent gathering of biomedical professionals in Lagos State, stakeholders underscored the crucial role of research as a key driver of national development. Their discourse centered around the pressing need for enhanced domestic funding and support for local research initiatives. Participants at the 14th edition of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research International Conference on Health Advances, Innovation and Research articulated a collective vision—under optimal circumstances and increased funding, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a leader in discovery and healthcare advancements. This assertion reflects a broader consensus that the nation’s health system, and by extension its general development, hinges on the quality and quantity of research it undertakes.
Prof. John Obafunwa, the Director-General of NIMR, addressed attendees during the conference opening, emphasizing that the event aims to generate evidence-based policy decisions that will fortify health systems, promote health security, and enable the exchange of innovative research ideas. He highlighted various evolving public health challenges, including the impacts of climate change and natural disasters, that have put a strain on global health. Obafunwa articulated the necessity for substantial investments in research to formulate policies that can address these challenges effectively, citing issues such as healthcare system vulnerabilities, vaccine hesitancy, antimicrobial resistance, and non-communicable diseases—among others—as areas that urgently require multidisciplinary research efforts.
The NIMR’s commitment to producing actionable research outcomes was underscored by Obafunwa, who praised the institute’s strides in developing diagnostic test kits for diseases like Mpox and COVID-19. He revealed that Nigeria’s LASSA fever vaccine project, being spearheaded by Nigerian scientists, is nearing completion. The DG acknowledged the vital support from various international organizations collaborating with NIMR to enhance health security. He reiterated the importance of a united effort—”all hands must be on deck”—to ensure that health research translates into tangible improvements in public health.
In discussions with journalists, Obafunwa expressed optimism regarding the Lagos State government’s commitment to uplifting research efforts, particularly those aimed at infectious diseases and public health issues. He cited the state government’s potential to facilitate research on malaria prevalence and emerging pathogens, along with the nascent efforts at vaccine production. His tenure at NIMR is characterized by a determination to maximize research outcomes through collaboration and innovative practices, a vision that emphasizes utilizing local resources and expertise to address health challenges.
On another note, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, echoed the earlier sentiments by acknowledging the foundational role of research in national development. He outlined how targeted funding and partnerships with public health institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in better health outcomes and economic stability for the region. He articulated the importance of investing in research to prepare for unforeseen public health crises and underlined the strategic importance of government support in harnessing research for public welfare.
Moreover, Abayomi highlighted an emerging trend of increased investment in research, thanks to the recognition of its significance by government officials, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. However, he noted the ongoing challenge of balancing funding allocations amidst competing priorities. He asserted that as Nigeria’s internal revenue grows, there is a brighter outlook for funding local research aimed at addressing the unique health challenges faced by the nation. In addition, keynote speaker and leading medical authority, Akinsanya Osibogun, called on researchers to actively disseminate their findings through various channels to raise public awareness and foster effective health management strategies. Overall, the conference remains a pivotal platform for advocating robust research and collaboration as cornerstones of health advancement in Nigeria.
