By Kemi Akintokun
A former Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Fashola, has advocated for improved funding to enhance the research capacity of the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR).
Fashola spoke on Tuesday at the institute’s monthly media chat organised to inform the public on its research works and findings.
Fashola, who serve as the Chairman of the NIMR Foundation, noted that the institute had yet to receive the needed attention to be at par with other health institutes around the globe.
According to him, the nation can become a global contributor to future medical breakthroughs if NIMR can receive adequate support.
“Scientific discoveries through research have continued to shape quality of life of humans.
“Eye glasses exist because researchers committed time and resources to improving human welfare.
“Discoveries like penicillin, introduced in 1948, significantly raised global life expectancy.
“NIMR is the country’s apex medical research institute and must be adequately funded to carry out its mandate to meet the health needs of the country,” he said.
He appealed to the government to create reportorial system and account whereby unused funds in the institute’s account would not be mopped up based on government’s yearly policy.
“The government must provide an account were unused funds are not moped up but are kept and monitor for the institute not to go out of research,” he said.
He urged the media to continue to educate Nigerians on the importance of funding medical research, adding that the government alone shouldn’t be saddled with the responsibility of funding research.
The Chairman noted that both private and public entities should play their role by supporting the institution with funding and advocacy.
Speaking earlier, Prof. Oladapo Obafunwa, the Director-General of NIMR, said the media chat was initiated to promote accountability, collaboration and public understanding of ongoing research activities.
According to Obafunwa, the forum has provided opportunity to explain scientific works in clear language while strengthening engagement with journalists.
He reiterated that NIMR would continue to collaborate with the media to inform and engage the public. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
