Sodiq Ojuroungbe
Health researchers have called on the Federal Government to fund local health research efforts through supportive policies and the establishment of a dedicated funding agency.
The researchers led by the Director General of the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research, Prof Babatunde Salako stated that by formulating policies that would both support and encourage initiatives aimed at producing indigenous health technology and innovations, the government would be playing a crucial role in pushing homegrown solutions to meet Nigeria’s health concerns.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the NIMR DG noted that Nigeria is facing significant health challenges that require tailored, locally developed interventions.
Salako stressed that relying solely on imported innovation and treatments may not adequately address the unique health needs of Nigeria’s diverse population.
Highlighting the importance of precision medicine, the NIMR DG stated that understanding genetic differences is key for tailoring vaccines and medicines specifically to the needs of Nigerians and Africans.
He explained that this approach would improve health outcomes and reduce dependence on foreign technologies.
He noted that fostering an environment that supports Indigenous research and innovation is crucial.
The don added that by investing in local research and development, Nigeria can contribute novel healthcare innovations that meet international standards while addressing local health challenges.
According to him, supportive policies are seen as pivotal in creating an enabling environment for health researchers to thrive.
He added that these policies would encompass various aspects, including regulatory frameworks that would expedite the approval and adoption of locally developed healthcare technologies.
Salako stated, “By streamlining bureaucratic processes and incentivising research and development investments, policymakers can empower Nigerian researchers to explore novel approaches to healthcare delivery and disease management.
“It is imperative to prioritise funding for developing homegrown healthcare solutions that account for the genetic diversity of African populations. Often, vaccines and medications developed outside Africa overlook the unique genetic profiles of Africans, impacting their effectiveness. This underscores the critical need for local research and development efforts aimed at tailoring healthcare innovations that effectively address our specific health challenges.
“By understanding these genetic differences, we can develop vaccines and medicines that are specifically tailored to the needs of Nigerians and Africans, thereby enhancing health outcomes and reducing reliance on foreign technologies.
“Therefore, adequate funding is not only essential to support our research endeavours but also vital for ensuring that our locally developed solutions can compete globally. By investing in indigenous research and development, we not only strengthen our healthcare infrastructure but also foster economic growth by nurturing local industries capable of producing affordable and effective healthcare solutions that are uniquely suited to our population.”
He, however, expressed concern that health research in Nigeria has not yet been accorded the respect it deserves.
The NIMR DG said research was essential for preventing outbreaks, adding that while the return on investment in research may not be immediate, it is crucial for the long-term health of the nation.
He added, “One of the reasons why maybe some governments may not want to fund research is that the return on investment in research takes a long time. And politicians want something they can do to bring votes tomorrow or at the next election.
“Scientists don’t have that time of abracadabra. That’s not to say that no research can bring short-term solutions that you can showcase. But major ones that are going to be contributing to the economy of the nation, the health workforce capacity and all of that might take some time.”
The researcher maintained that health research remains the driving force behind a nation’s progress, and even more so than advancements in engineering or education.
He explained that this is because healthy citizens form the foundation of a thriving workforce and strong economy.
On how to address the funding challenges faced by health research institutions, Salako urged the government to create a dedicated health research funding agency.
He noted that such an agency would ensure sustainable funding for research activities, reduce reliance on external donors, and foster innovation in addressing Nigeria’s health priorities.
Salako expressed optimism that with adequate government support, Nigerian researchers could contribute significantly to global health advancements while addressing local health needs effectively.
The don called on the government to prioritise healthcare funding as a crucial investment in national development and economic prosperity.
He added, “We need a health research funding agency to support our health system, providing funding for health researchers who will develop homegrown solutions to Nigerian health challenges. Currently, we rely heavily on competitive external funding, which limits our capacity for sustained innovation.
“A dedicated funding agency could catalyze our efforts, ensuring consistent investment in local research that considers our genetic diversity and addresses our specific health needs.
“Countries with such agencies have seen remarkable improvements in their health systems and economic development. It’s time Nigeria takes this step to secure our health future.”
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