Renowned virologist, Dr. Simeon Agwale has revealed that a Lassa fever vaccine produced by a Nigerian has successfully passed preclinical trials involving mice and non-human primates.
Agwale, who is CEO of Innovative Biotech, disclosed during an interview with journalists over the weekend in Abuja. He described the development as a major step forward in the fight to control the deadly viral disease.
Lassa fever remains one of the most serious viral threats in Nigeria, according to Science Nigeria.
Agwale stated that the vaccine, licensed from the University of Maryland by Medigen USA Inc., demonstrated complete protection during trials.
“This vaccine by a Nigerian is the only one so far demonstrating efficacy against the Nigerian strain of the Lassa virus, which is different from the widely used ‘Josiah’ strain originating from Sierra Leone,” he said.
“We have the exclusive license for the vaccine’s use in Africa. We pay royalties to Medigen USA Inc., and that’s how the innovation ecosystem works. They did the foundational work and we are building on it.
He explained that in the mouse trials, all five unvaccinated mice died after being exposed to the virus, while all vaccinated mice survived.
“Similar results were observed in the non-human primate study, where all unvaccinated animals died by day 22, while the vaccinated ones survived,” he said. “This is 100 per cent protection. It shows great promise and we hope to complete Phase 1 clinical trials soon.”
Agwale added that vaccine doses for clinical trials are currently being manufactured in the United States under a technology transfer arrangement, pending the completion of Nigeria’s vaccine production facility.
Beyond the vaccine’s success, Agwale expressed concern over the state of Nigeria’s academic system, particularly in postgraduate training and research.
“We’ve spent millions sending lecturers abroad for postdoctoral training without seeing results. Every postdoctoral position in the U.S. already comes with funding, so why send people with extra money and no structure at home to apply their skills?” he asked.
He warned that unless Nigeria overhauls its university curricula to focus on specific, market-relevant fields like vaccinology and drug development, the country would continue to fall behind in science and innovation.
“We’re still running master’s programmes in Microbiology with nine courses per semester – what’s the point? We need targeted, practical training. A graduate in vaccinology should understand how vaccines are developed, tested, and manufactured.”
Agwale urged universities to take ownership of research by generating funds through problem-solving innovations, rather than relying entirely on government support.
“We must build research centres and retain talent. Innovation should solve national problems, not just earn foreign degrees,” he said.
He stressed the importance of collaborating with global partners while building local capacity to ensure scientific self-reliance and health security.
“This isn’t about being a local champion. You must compete globally—health emergencies don’t wait,” he added.
