By Oluyemi Israel
In Abuja, the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) has announced that the €18 million grant from the European Union (EU), signed earlier in the year 2024, will soon be put to work to strengthen Nigeria’s vaccine research and production.
The grant supports Nigeria’s 10-year National Plan for Vaccine Research, Development and Local Production (2024–2034). This ambitious plan aims to build local capacity to research, develop, and manufacture vaccines within the country.
Dr. Obi Adigwe, Director-General of NIPRD, revealed that the grant marks a major step in ending Africa’s reliance on imported vaccines, a problem made painfully clear during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was shameful that Africa depended on the Global North and Asia for vaccines. Countries hoarded vaccines despite preaching fairness. We must develop our own vaccine capabilities,” he said.
The EU grant is the largest vaccine related funding awarded so far in Africa and was secured through a collaborative effort involving government ministries, international partners like UNICEF, academic institutions, and private sector players.
To make the most of this funding, NIPRD developed a detailed vaccine roadmap. This plan includes research, clinical trials, technology transfer, building manufacturing facilities, training skilled workers, and strengthening regulations to ensure safe and effective vaccines.
Dr. Adigwe said the team has already started working with UNICEF and expects to announce major developments soon.
Looking ahead, Nigeria hopes to have at least 3 to 4 companies producing vaccines locally within the next decade, significantly reducing the country’s dependence on imports. This effort also supports Nigeria’s broader health reform goals, focusing on pandemic preparedness, local production, and pharmaceutical innovation.
The grant is not just about vaccines, it’s about national security, economic strength, and health equity.
“Our goal is to make sure no Nigerian is left behind when it comes to lifesaving vaccines,” Dr. Adigwe emphasized.
With strong partnerships and this historic €18 million funding, Nigeria is taking bold steps toward becoming a leader in vaccine research and production, protecting the health of millions now and for the future.