Health experts are calling for the Federal Government to provide financial support to local health research initiatives by implementing favorable policies and establishing a specific funding body.
This plea comes from a group of researchers, led by Prof Babatunde Salako, the Director General of the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research.
They emphasize the importance of policies that not only endorse but also incentivize endeavors aiming to create homegrown health technologies and innovations.
The researchers assert that by facilitating such initiatives, the government can significantly contribute to addressing Nigeria’s health needs.
They caution against solely depending on imported healthcare solutions, as these may not effectively cater to the country’s diverse population.
The researchers point out that customizing vaccines and medicines based on genetic disparities is essential for enhancing health outcomes and reducing reliance on foreign medical advancements.
They stress the significance of nurturing an environment conducive to indigenous research and innovation.
According to the Director General, investing in local research and development could lead to the emergence of cutting-edge healthcare solutions that adhere to global standards while successfully tackling local health issues.
In order to support health researchers, the experts underscore the importance of implementing accommodating policies, including regulatory frameworks that streamline the endorsement and implementation of domestically produced healthcare technologies.
Salako noted, “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, also, emphasized concern that health research in Nigeria has not yet been accorded the respect it deserves.
The NIMR DG explained study was essential for averting outbreaks, stating that while the return on investment in research may not be immediate, it is crucial for the long-term health of the nation.
He elaborateed, “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.
The researcher emphasized that health research is the key driver of a nation’s progress, even more so than advancements in engineering or education.
He stressed that a healthy population is essential for a productive workforce and strong economy. To address funding challenges, he urged the government to establish a dedicated health research funding agency, which would provide sustainable funding, reduce reliance on external donors, and foster innovation in addressing Nigeria’s health priorities.
He expressed optimism that with government support, Nigerian researchers could make significant contributions to global health advancements while addressing local health needs effectively.
He called on the government to prioritize healthcare funding as a vital investment in national development and economic prosperity.
He noted, “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.”
