2 hours ago
2 ARTICLE AD
L-R: Mr. Jurgen Bartelink, Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands to Nigeria; Dr. Nneka Okekearu, Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University; Dr. Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator, Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC); Mrs. Njide Ndili, Country Director, PharmAccess Nigeria
Stakeholders in the health sector have called for innovative research in driving Nigeria’s health system and unlocking the healthcare value chain.
The stakeholders made this known at the research symposium themed, “Innovating Healthcare in Nigeria: Connecting Research and Policy for Universal Health Coverage,” organised by PharmAccess in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, the Enterprise Development Centre, and the Federal Medical Centre, Lagos.
A statement issued on Wednesday noted that the symposium was aimed at linking policy formation with credible scientific data, ensuring that research effectively informs healthcare policy and practice.
In his keynote address, the National Coordinator for the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking Healthcare Value Chain, Dr Abdu Mukhtar, stressed the importance of research in advancing Nigeria’s health agenda.
He explained that research is essential for unlocking the healthcare value chain, providing the data-driven analysis needed for informed policymaking and resource allocation. He emphasised the need to prioritize research as a key pillar of healthcare reform, as it offers the evidence necessary to effectively address existing challenges.
Mukhtar expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential to lead in health research, saying, “Nigeria can lead in this space, particularly when we harness the expertise of our talented diaspora and strengthen our local research centres of excellence.
“The government is committed to fostering stronger connections between local and global research institutions to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration, ensuring that research contributes meaningfully to improving healthcare outcomes.”
The Director General of NIMR, Prof John Obafunwa, highlighted research as the cornerstone of healthcare innovation.
He emphasised NIMR’s commitment to generating evidence that informs policy and drives actionable change in the healthcare system.
The don said, “We are dedicated to conducting rigorous research that addresses the pressing health challenges facing Nigeria. By translating research findings into practical solutions, we can improve the health and well-being of all Nigerians.”
The Country Director of PharmAccess, Mrs Njide Ndili, underscored the critical role of collaboration in transforming Nigeria’s healthcare system.
She noted that the symposium provides an essential platform for bringing together key stakeholders from across the public and private sectors, academia, and policymaking.
“Through these partnerships, we can truly move the needle towards achieving UHC for all Nigerians. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a more accessible, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system.
“The integration of research and policy is the key to driving change. We must bridge the gap between Nigeria’s wealth of research and the policies needed to improve healthcare outcomes. Today’s gathering is a vital opportunity to equip decision-makers with the actionable insights required to create effective strategies for a healthier nation.
“Robust, homegrown research is essential for creating solutions that are contextually relevant and sustainable. PharmAccess is proud to partner with local academic institutions to strengthen research efforts that drive the national health agenda,” she said.
Also speaking, the Chief Medical Director, Federal Medical Centre, Lagos, Dr Ademola Dada, emphasised that the Institute has implemented several quality improvement initiatives with significant results in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates.
“This symposium is a platform for us to share these successes and learn from the experiences of other institutions,” Dr. Dada remarked.
The Director of the Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, Dr Nneka Okekearu, also highlighted the role of collaborations between the private and public sectors in achieving UHC.
“Today’s event has underscored the importance of breaking down silos in the healthcare ecosystem. By connecting research, policy, and implementation, we can strengthen our healthcare system and ensure that Universal Health Coverage is not just a goal but a reality,” she said.
