Poised to improve healthcare service delivery in the New Year, the Federal Government on Thursday inaugurated the National Health Research Committee (NHRC), to drive transformative change in the sector.
The inauguration ceremony of the 13-man committee, held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in Lagos, was preceded over by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Tunji Alausa.
The NHRC, chaired by Prof. Olufunmilayo Olopade, has members including Prof. Bala Sanni; Prof. Babatunde Salako;
Prof. Zarki Abubakar; Prof. Nosiru Shaibu; Dr Obi Adigwe; Prof. Mayowa Owolabi; Prof. Christian Happi; Prof. Stephen Abah; Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar; and others.
Alausa, in his address at the occasion disclosed the essence of constituting the NHRC, which he said marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards a heathier and more resilient nation. He said his administration’s vision for health research in Nigeria was anchored in the pursuit of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity.
He explained how they intend to leverage cutting-edge research as cornerstone for national healthcare system, with the aim to harness the power of knowledge to address the unique challenges of the nation’s diverse population.
The minister said, “Our vision for health research encompasses a holistic approach that integrates scientific excellence, technological innovation, community engagement, and global collaboration to improve the health of every Nigerian.
“In this vision, health research is not just a scientific endeavour but dynamic force that propels us towards evidence based policies and practices. We aspire to create an environment where our researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals work hand in hand to pioneer solutions that transcend border, contributing to global health advancements”.
According to Dr Alausa, the Tinubu-led administration’s vision for health research encompasses major pillars, which include innovation and technology, disease surveillance and early warning systems, health equity and access, translational research and implementation science, community-centric research, capacity building and collaboration.
He further highlighted the obligations of the committee, which will serve as has a vanguard of health research, facilitating collaboration across disciplines and institutions. Its importance, he said lies in its capacity to guide, coordinate and support research initiatives that align with national health priorities.
Appreciating members of the NHRC for accepting the responsibility, he urged them to be guided by the spirit of collaboration, innovation and unwavering commitment to the health of Nigerian citizen.
In her acceptance speech, Chairman of the NHRC, Prof. Olopade, expressed her gratitutde to the minister and members of the committee for the trust and confidence bestowed on her.
Olopade, who narrated her foray in the diaspora for over 40 years, mentioned how she has transverse national borders in search of innovative solution to various health challenges across the globe.
She said, “I left the shore of Nigeria over 40 years ago in search of knowledge, which makes accepting this role a tremendous honour for me personally.
“I want to thank President Bola Tinubu for making healthy research a priority for Nigerians because this will play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development not only for our country but for other countries that are looking up to Nigeria to step up”.
The Director General of NIMR, Prof. Babatunde Salako, who was the host, appreciated the minister for selecting experts who have contributed nationally and globally in health research to the committee.
He particularly acknowledged the personality of the chairman of the committee, as a globally known figure in the world of research, likewise other members.
According to Prof. Salako, “The minister’s zeal and passion for health research to move from where it is to an advanced level has driven him to assemble members of the committee”.
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