NIMR seeks improved funding for research activities in Nigeria

• Donor monies do not address local priorities, says Salako

Worried by the deteriorating healthcare system, Director General (DG), Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Prof. Babatunde Salako, has said that research is keen to the growth and development of the nation, urging the policy makers for proper funding of the course.

He made the call during the send forth lecture of former DG, NIMR Prof. Emmanuel Idigbe, who recorded a major feat in research in the area of tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Salako said that getting donor fund may be possible but it does not often address the peculiarities in terms of their research priorities. He continued: “Even if we get the funds from outside it does not as much serve the interest of the country. Government must necessarily put some amount of money for research so that we can meet our research priority.It is the only way you can improve the healthcare system. Medical research comes up with innovative ideas like drug developments, prevention and innovation.”

Salako added: “Based on my short experience, Idigbe is someone who has indeed made significant contributions in research in NIMR and also outside Nigeria. He is retiring from service in NIRM and some mentees have decided to put up this programme to show how they have benefitted from the wealth of his experience.

“We have examination of his grant from Abuja; it is about HIV drug resistant. The result will help to determine at what point you would review the patient and check the level of burden of the disease.”

He urged the government to fund research, “Every opportunity I have, I always call for funding, we should not depend on foreign donors and unless government wake up to realise that research and development is important for the growth of the country, we are likely to make more profit”.