Nigeria Partners Develop Local Solutions Against River Blindness, Sleeping Sickness
Otamere Gladness 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Two Nigerian research agencies partner to develop locally sourced solutions to combat River Blindness and Sleeping Sickness, diseases that continue to affect vulnerable communities nationwide.
The Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research (NITR) and the Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) formalise the partnership on Wednesday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in Abuja.
The agreement establishes a joint framework for research, validation and commercialisation of non-repellent products derived from Nigeria’s indigenous natural resources.
Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Mr. Phillip Ndiomu, Science and Technology, describes the collaboration as a strategic push to translate scientific research into practical health solutions. “This partnership reflects the government’s commitment to innovation that improves lives and strengthens the national science and technology ecosystem,” Ndiomu says.
He commends both agencies for advancing Nigerian-led responses to neglected tropical diseases while promoting economic growth through local innovation.
The Director-General of NNMDA, Prof Martins Emeje, explains that the initiative seeks to reduce dependence on imported treatments by harnessing Nigeria’s biodiversity. “Our goal is to develop effective, homegrown remedies for onchocerciasis and trypanosomiasis,” he says.
Director-General of NITR, Dr JJ Ajakaiye, says the alliance strengthens his institute’s mandate to research and deploy technologies aimed at controlling and eliminating diseases.
He adds that pooling expertise and resources will accelerate progress towards sustainable disease management.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Mirian Gom 
Hussaini Ibrahim