Equity Vaccines Ltd., a pioneering subsidiary of the Equity Health Group, has set to begin clinical trials for its innovative malaria vaccine in Nigeria, marking a critical milestone in the battle against one of Africa’s most pressing public health challenges.
The company, which has been collaborating with a reputable Nigerian university, was nearing the completion of the pre-clinical stage of the vaccine’s development.
This ambitious project is part of Equity Vaccines’ plan to produce 100 million doses annually, significantly contributing to the fight against malaria across Nigeria and the African continent.
The vaccine’s development comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with high malaria incidence rates—305 new cases per 1,000 people at risk in 2022 alone.
Equity Vaccines’ initiative is a promising step towards providing a more robust solution that aims to protect a broader population, particularly in a country where malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death.
The initiative is being driven under the visionary leadership of Dozy Mmobuosi, a UK-based Nigerian entrepreneur, and HRM Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ọjájá II), the Ooni of Ife. Together with its sister companies—Equity Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and Equity Specialist Clinics & Diagnostic Centre—Equity Vaccines is preparing to revolutionize malaria prevention in Nigeria.
“Our mission to combat malaria is entering a critical phase with the imminent completion of pre-clinical trials and the upcoming commencement of rigorous clinical trials across designated centers nationwide.
“We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety, ensuring that our processes meet not only the stringent requirements of Nigerian regulatory bodies like NAFDAC and SON but also the global standards set by the WHO. Our ultimate goal is to make this life-saving vaccine accessible and affordable, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa,” stated Dozy Mmobuosi.
Director of Research & Development at Equity Vaccines, Dr. Preye Ogbe, highlighted the significance of this achievement.
“This project represents the culmination of years of rigorous research and collaboration. Our partnership with a leading Nigerian university will be instrumental in achieving this breakthrough. As we transition into the clinical phase, we are confident in the vaccine’s potential to significantly reduce the malaria burden across the continent.”
Pending final regulatory approvals, the clinical trials will mark a significant advancement for Equity Vaccines. The company is working closely with government authorities to ensure full compliance and is laying the groundwork for large-scale vaccine production. With the capacity to produce up to 100 million doses annually, Equity Vaccines is positioning itself as a key player in the global fight against malaria.
Delta North Senator, Ned Nwoko, who is a prominent advocate for malaria eradication in Nigeria, has lauded the efforts of local vaccine stakeholders.
“By producing vaccines and health products locally, we are reducing our dependence on foreign supplies, ensuring that Nigerians have timely access to life-saving interventions. This initiative will strengthen our public health infrastructure and contribute to the broader economic and social stability of Nigeria.”
Dr. Segun Sanni, Director of Programmes and Compliance at Equity Health Group, emphasized the strategic importance of the company’s approach to vaccine distribution.
“Adhering to regulatory standards and building a robust distribution network are crucial for the success of this initiative. We are collaborating with government agencies to ensure our vaccine meets international safety and efficacy standards.”
Beyond the malaria vaccine, Equity Vaccines is actively engaged in research and development for other critical vaccines tailored to the African market. This comprehensive approach reflects the company’s broader vision of contributing to significant health advancements both within Africa and on a global scale.
As Equity Vaccines prepares to move forward with these landmark clinical trials, the company is not just developing a vaccine; it is pioneering a new era in African healthcare. The forthcoming malaria vaccine, with the potential to save millions of lives, represents a transformative leap forward in the fight against one of the continent’s most devastating diseases.