The Federal Government has highlighted that advancements in health research and innovation signal a transformative era for Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa made this statement on Wednesday in Abuja during a national strategic meeting on health research development and innovation.
The National Health Research Committee (NHRC), established by the National Health Act of 2014, aims to strengthen health research in Nigeria. Leveraging the country’s large population, the NHRC aspires to make Nigeria a research hub in sub-Saharan Africa. Recently inaugurated by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, the NHRC intends to enhance the research ecosystem, foster innovative research and build capacity for young health researchers.
The committee’s objectives include leading evidence-based healthcare decision-making, harmonizing health-related research, supporting health research startups, accelerating multidisciplinary research, facilitating collaboration between researchers and policymakers, and helping young researchers develop grant writing skills. These developments are expected to significantly improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of care across the country.
Alausa underscored the essential role of research and innovation in addressing Nigeria’s health challenges. He stated that Nigeria, with its diverse population and unique health issues, stands at a critical juncture. “It is through rigorous research that we gain the insights necessary to develop effective interventions,” he said. He emphasised the transformative potential of innovation to turn these insights into tangible solutions that improve lives.
He also highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, which prioritises quality and accessible healthcare for all Nigerians. Alausa noted the unprecedented support from the administration for the health sector, emphasising the considerable responsibility this places on health leaders. “With this comes a huge responsibility on our shoulders to perform. Research and innovation are key enablers to achieving quality and targeted healthcare for our fellow citizens,” he added.
Encouraging participants to think boldly and creatively, Alausa urged for an embrace of collaboration and partnership. “Let us also commit to translating our research findings into policies and practices that make a real difference in the lives of our people,” he said. He stressed the importance of diverse ideas and perspectives in achieving significant breakthroughs.
In her welcome address, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ms. Kachollom Daju stated that the goal was to align health research with national priorities, foster collaboration, and find innovative solutions to healthcare challenges. “Despite our nation’s health issues, we have vast resources and expertise to drive groundbreaking research and sustainable development,” she said.
Daju highlighted the importance of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the role of health research in achieving it. “The administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for health research, reconstituting key health committees, and promoting local drug and vaccine manufacturing. Strengthening health security through cutting-edge research is essential,” she added.
Chairman of the NHREC, Prof. Richard Adegbola emphasised that health research plays a critical role in shaping healthcare policies, improving treatment outcomes, and enhancing public health interventions. He noted that health research provides data on disease trends, risk factors, treatment outcomes, public health interventions, functional abilities, care patterns and healthcare costs.
“Despite the potential benefits of health investments, resource-poor countries, including Nigeria, struggle with the poor quality of research findings and their reliability,” Adegbola stated. He added that as part of the health sector renewal agenda, the Nigerian government is making significant efforts to improve the quality of research output through resource mobilisation, creating a sustainable platform for improved capacity building at all levels.
The government’s advocacy for health research and innovation underscores a commitment to addressing Nigeria’s health challenges through evidence-based strategies and collaborative efforts. With enhanced research capabilities and innovative approaches, Nigeria aims to significantly improve its healthcare system and ensure better health outcomes for its population.
