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NIMR DG Calls For Increased Local Funding To Tackle Nigeria’s Health Challenges

Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa, the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), has expressed concern over the inadequate funding of medical research in Nigeria.

He emphasized that while international collaborations and foreign funding have been pivotal, local investment is crucial to address the nation’s unique health challenges.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that each during a courtesy visit by the executive members of the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN), Obafunwa stated that heavy reliance on foreign funding leaves research institutions vulnerable to shifts in global economic and political climates.

Despite NIMR’s prominence in the fight against diseases in Nigeria, the lack of consistent funding hinders its ability to conduct critical research and develop essential treatments.

Obafunwa noted that much of the research at NIMR is supported by international donors like the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

However, he pointed out that foreign funding often dictates the research agenda, focusing on global health issues rather than local needs.

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He called for increased government funding to ensure that Nigeria can prioritize its health concerns, such as malaria, sickle cell anemia, and non-communicable diseases.

“Local funding would allow us to address diseases that disproportionately affect Nigerians, which are often neglected in global research initiatives,” Obafunwa said.

The NIMR Director General also highlighted the need for a robust research infrastructure, the training of skilled scientists, and innovation, which would strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and reduce dependency on foreign aid.

He also stressed that local research can combat misinformation, particularly around vaccines, and promote public health.

Obafunwa concluded by pledging to focus NIMR’s research on prevalent health issues in Nigeria, including breast cancer, to improve local health outcomes.