Stakeholders seek more research funding for Nigerian healthcare

Stakeholders in the healthcare sector have emphasised the need for increased support for research in advancing human health.

The experts noted that research plays a critical role in improving human health, from developing new treatments and medications to understanding the causes of diseases.

This call was made on Tuesday, during send forth ceremony for the outgoing Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Prof. Babatunde Salako, held at NIMR centre, Yaba, Lagos State.

The stakeholders comprising of researchers, and physicians urged the government to increase funding for research, provide better infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for researchers to thrive.

They, however, lamented that research in Nigeria is often hindered by inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and a lack of government support.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi, emphasised the importance of research in advancing human health and development.

Abayomi noted that research is crucial for the development of any modern and civilized country.

The commissioner highlighted the need for a conducive research environment, which includes funding, infrastructure, and trained personnel.

He maintained that research needs to be funded to produce meaningful results.

He, however, commended Prof. Salako for his eight years of selfless service as the Director-General of NIMR.

He praised Salako for advancing NIMR to a high level of research and innovation.

The commissioner encouraged NIMR to continue its good work and to strive for excellence in research.

He added, “We are just beginning to see, understand and realise the importance of research in the field of science. And for us here at the National Institute of Medical Research, we have just witnessed the send forth of the Director General, Professor Salako, who has been here for eight years. And he has really advanced this centre to the highest level of research and innovation.

“Every modern and civilised country has a very strong research and development agenda. And we are just beginning to understand that here. With leaders like Professor Salako, people in policy-making positions, and people in government have seen the fruit of research, innovation, and development.

“You see, that’s why they call it research and development. Because without the research, your community cannot develop. And so the government has to realise that they need to put resources into research so that the fruit of research can result in development.”

On his part, a professor of hematology and transfusion medicine at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Alani Akanmu, stressed the need for deliberate funding of research by the government, citing examples of countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Netherlands, which have made significant advancements in biomedical research through well-funded research.

Akamu noted that a research institute like NIMR needs to have a good research environment, including a biobank, well-equipped laboratories, and trained personnel, to attract research grants.

The don highlighted the importance of research in advancing human health and development, adding that research has led to many significant discoveries and innovations in the biomedical field.

The consultant haematologist said there was a need for researchers to be trained to conduct responsible research.

He stated that researchers need to be aware of the ethical implications of their research and to conduct their research with integrity.

The professor emphasised the importance of collaboration between researchers and policymakers, noting that researchers need to communicate their findings effectively to policymakers to inform decision-making.

Reflecting on his eight years as NIMR DG, Salako said one of the major successes of his administration was creating a conducive research environment that allowed researchers to thrive.

He attributed this to the innovative approach of linking researchers with universities, enabling them to teach, supervise, and progress in their academic careers.

This approach, the don noted, brought respect and visibility to the researchers, boosted their confidence, and ultimately transformed the institution.

He stated that improving human capacity was key to attracting funds, winning grants, and conducting innovative research that made NIMR a globally relevant and nationally competitive institution.

Salako expressed his gratitude for the goodwill messages he received, saying they were a challenge to do more.

The outgoing DG stressed the importance of teamwork and collaboration in research.

Salako stressed that funding was crucial for health research to move forward in Nigeria.

He reiterated the need for a health research funding agency, citing its numerous advantages.

Other present at the ceremony were the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele; the former governor of Lagos State and chairman of NIMR Foundation, Babatunde Fashola; the Olota of Ota, Prof Adeyemi Obalanlege; former minister of Health, Prof Isaac Adewole, Chief Medical Directors of Teaching Hospitals, among others.