The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has emphasized the need for increased investment in health research and stronger collaboration with government and international partners to address viral threats and strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness for future pandemics.
This call was made during a press briefing at the IHVN Campus ahead of the 3rd International Research Center of Excellence (IRCE) Annual Scientific Symposium International Research, featuring the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Patrick Dakum, the Chief Operating Officer/Managing Director, Dr. Charles Olalekan Mensah, and the IRCE Executive Director, Professor Alash’le Abimiku.
Speaking at the event, Professor Abimiku explained that this year’s symposium focus is on viral threats to public health. She noted that outbreaks such as COVID-19, diphtheria, and lassa fever continue to challenge the country’s health systems.
“Unless we come together to understand the viruses that put us at risk, we will continue to face repeated outbreaks. The key question remains: if another pandemic hits, are we prepared?” she said. According to her, IHVN’s research examines how viruses change, spread, and impact populations, while also working with policymakers to ensure findings influence national health policies.
Dr. Dakum added that collaboration with government is central to IHVN’s work. From formulating research questions to disseminating results, policymakers are involved to ensure findings translate into real-world solutions. He cited the example of HIV service delivery, where IHVN research on providing services at the community level helped inform the policy of decentralizing HIV care across Nigeria. “If you do not inform policy, you cannot scale up findings beyond research sites,” he noted.
Also at the event, IHVN Managing Director, Dr. Charles Olalekan Mensah stressed the need for domestic financing for research, stating, “If health budgets do not allocate at least 10–30% for research, we won’t go far. Implementation without science cannot succeed.” He added that IHVN continues to seek grants, collaborate with local partners, and advocate for private sector involvement in research financing.
Looking ahead, Dr. Mensah announced that IHVN is constructing a 1,000-seater Learning and Development Centre to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange with global researchers. “We want the world to see that we are not just a local organization, but an international institution of excellence,” he said.