Health experts have emphasized the need for increased domestic funding for research by the Federal Government to tackle health challenges in Nigeria.

The call was made during the scientific seminar of the International Research Centre of Excellence of the Institute of Human Virology in Nigeria (IHVN) in Abuja.

The seminar, held to commemorate the commissioning of the IHVN Campus, focused on addressing local health challenges through quality research and partnerships.

Dr. Patrick Dakum, the CEO of IHVN, highlighted Nigeria’s intellectual capacity for research but stressed the importance of government funding.

He emphasized the significance of research for development and urged the government to allocate more funds for research activities.

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Dakum stated that universities receive minimal research budgets and urged the government to be deliberate in funding research to avoid neglecting the future.

Dr. Dakum also called on the private sector to contribute to the health sector, emphasizing the role of research in improving public health interventions and outcomes.

He discussed the importance of science, data, and research in guiding IHVN’s work and expressed the organization’s commitment to expanding the country’s capacity to provide quality health interventions.

Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, the Executive Director at the International Research Centre of Excellence, echoed the need for increased funding and emphasized that while grants play a role, the government should also allocate funds for research.

She highlighted the importance of sustained funding for young researchers to ensure long-term discoveries and advancements in healthcare.