In a proactive move to uphold ethical research standards and safeguard the welfare of participants, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has officially launched an Ethics Committee.
IHVN’s Senior Communications Manager, Ms. Uzoma Nwofor unveiled this development in a statement issued to journalists on Monday in Abuja.
Nwofor elaborated on the committee’s role, stating that its primary responsibility is to review and approve research protocols involving human subjects conducted by IHVN-affiliated researchers. She emphasiSed,
“The committee, comprising 16 multidisciplinary members, convenes monthly to meticulously assess research protocols slated for implementation within IHVN or by its affiliates.”
She added, “Our paramount objective is to safeguard participants’ rights, uphold ethical standards, ensure informed consent procedures, and adhere to good clinical practice, prioritizing research benefits over risks.”
Chair of the IHVN Ethics Committee, Dr. Nnakelu Eriobu reiterated the committee’s unwavering commitment to participants’ welfare and safety.
“We serve as partners to researchers, offering guidance, feedback, and oversight to prioritise ethical considerations in all IHVN research endeavours,” he affirmed.
He emphasised, “Our mandate includes rigorously evaluating research protocols, studies, and investigations to ensure compliance with internationally recognised ethical principles and guidelines.”
Nwofor highlighted that the IHVN Ethics Committee is authorised by the Nigerian National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) to review all study types except phase I clinical trials.
She emphasised, “Committee members have undergone comprehensive training provided by NHREC and are equipped to uphold ethical standards.”
Eriobu outlined the application process for ethical approval, noting that researchers can submit their applications, research protocols, and supporting materials via a cloud-based platform accessible on the IHVN website. He assured,
“We are committed to providing prompt feedback on all applications, with a maximum response time of two months for clinical trials from the date of submission.”
IHVN, a prominent indigenous non-governmental organisation, is dedicated to implementing comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment programmes. It also conducts research and capacity-building initiatives in collaboration with local and international partners, demonstrating its commitment to advancing public health in Nigeria and beyond.
