LAGOS, Nigeria – The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has raised concerns that cuts in USAID funding have slowed critical HIV research, including work on treatments and vaccines.
Speaking ahead of IHVN’s 3rd Annual Scientific Symposium in Abuja, Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, Executive Director of the International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE), said the setback had affected ongoing projects but research continues despite challenges.
“Our work on sequencing HIV strains in Nigeria remains vital. These strains differ from those in South Africa and Kenya, which makes local research critical,” she explained.
Prof. Abimiku noted the institute is also collaborating internationally on Lassa fever vaccine trials.
IHVN’s CEO, Dr. Patrick Dakum, stressed that the organisation’s findings inform national health policies, while COO Dr. Charles Mensah called for sustainable funding.
“We remain hopeful that the government and partners will restore funding to safeguard scientific research essential for Nigeria’s health future,” Mensah added.
