Mirian Gom 
Abuja, Nigeria – The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) and the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Lafia (FUTHL), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost vaccine and drug research, development, and clinical trials in Nigeria.
The agreement, signed in Abuja in the presence of Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, aims to strengthen local pharmaceutical manufacturing and address gaps in vaccine production across Africa.
FUTHL Chief Medical Director, Dr. Ikrama Hassan, emphasised the urgency of the partnership, noting that Africa produces less than 10% of its vaccines and pharmaceuticals. “The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted our vulnerabilities. Developing active pharmaceutical ingredients locally ensures Nigeria can respond quickly during future health emergencies,” he said.
NIPRD Director-General, Dr. Obi Adigwe stated that the MoU supports high-impact collaborations that enhance research, capacity building, and commercialisation. The agreement allows FUTHL to participate in training programmes, including slots for 50 to 100 Nigerian scientists at Stanford University in February 2026.
The partnership also strengthens clinical trials capacity, leveraging NIPRD’s experience in Nigeria’s first fractional COVID-19 vaccine dosing trial. Additionally, initiatives will explore phytomedicine research in Nasarawa State, creating opportunities for women and youth to generate income through ethnomedicinal plants.
Dr. Adigwe explained that combining government oversight with private-sector experience creates pathways to commercialise research outputs, generating revenue for both Nigeria and scientists. The collaboration is poised to reinforce Nigeria’s position as a hub for pharmaceutical innovation and localisation of vaccines and drugs, supporting sustainable healthcare development.
About the Author
Otamere Gladness 
Oluwatobi Adu 