The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) has partnered with Stanford University’s SPARK GLOBAL to establish a translational research initiative in Nigeria.
The landmark move according to a statement is aimed at revolutionizing biomedical research across African continent.
According to SPARK GLOBAL, the program seeks to “address unmet medical needs” through homegrown innovation and foster “a self-driven discovery ecosystem.”
In the statement released on Wednesday by NIPRD formally disclosed the collaboration will debut with the SPARK Translational Research Bootcamp and Conference, scheduled to hold in Abuja, Nigeria from February 2 to 6, 2026.
“The event will mark the official launch of the SPARK Nigeria program, designed to equip African scientists with the tools needed to transform academic research into practical healthcare solutions”, the statement further disclosed.
Director-General of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Dr. Obi Adigwe, said the collaboration would catalyse research and development capacity to address Africa’s most pressing diseases, while also creating value chains essential to the country’s health sector reform goals.
He described it as a key step in building the innovation architecture that will shape the future of healthcare across the continent.
Rooted in Stanford University’s acclaimed SPARK translational research model, the initiative aims to bridge the divide between laboratory discoveries and real-world medical applications. It will feature intensive training, mentorship, and networking for scientists from universities and research institutions across the continent.
NIPRD highlighted the key objectives of the initiative as follows; Conducting an intensive translational research bootcamp for African scientists, Bridging the gap between scientific research and clinical application, Establishing SPARK Centres in African institutions led by trained SPARK Africa Directors, Encouraging collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and innovators.
The project also aligns with Nigeria’s Presidential Health Sector Reform initiatives and efforts to boost local pharmaceutical manufacturing—advancing national goals for science, innovation, and economic growth.
“We believe the greatest potential for impactful innovation exists when researchers are solving problems, they understand best,” said SPARK GLOBAL. “SPARK Nigeria will give African scientists the tools to do just that.”
NIPRD, a federal agency focused on developing and commercializing pharmaceutical and biological products has ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 certified, and plays a critical role in health policy, drug distribution, and research collaboration.
As for SPARK GLOBAL, it was founded at Stanford University and has since supported academic institutions worldwide in translating biomedical research into solutions for pressing global health challenges. The program offers mentorship, strategic guidance, and resources for innovations targeting unmet medical needs.
