NIPRD calls for increased R&D funding to achieve national medicine security
The Director General of the Nigeria Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Dr Obi Adigwe, says the institute had the capacity to develop world class Phyto-medicinal products to fight infectious diseases, if properly funded.
“Funding is integral to achieving medicine security. Scientists in NIPRD are world class, and we intend to make Nigeria the hub of pharmaceutical research and development in Africa.
“Some funding has come in from the Central Bank of Nigeria in recent times, to support Research and Development of Phyto-Medicines, but it should not be left for government alone,’’ Adigwe said on Monday, in Abuja, during an engagement with the media,
The NIPRD chief executive emphasised the need for Nigerians to appreciate the importance of pharmaceutical research and development for the country to achieve medicine security.
He cited the COVID-19 pandemic as creating opportunities for improved funding of research into tropical and other diseases, adding that NIPRD had already developed protocols for testing of locally made ventilators, and disinfectants delivery devices.
“To quicken the pace of Phyto-medicine production in the country, we have also introduced and commenced Phyto-Medicines training conferences for improving the skills and knowledge of traditional medicine practitioners in all states of the federation.
“In the area of COVID-19 alone, our scientists have taken the responsibilities of seeking to address problems now rather than later.
“This is because, if COVID-19 is neglected, it will have catastrophic consequences as mankind faces a more worrisome future with the disease entering its second phase,’’ he said.
Adigwe assured that NIPRD had developed a clinical trial protocol and capacity for Hydroxychloroquine, Chloroquine and Azithromycine combination for COVID-19 treatment.
He added that a data base had also been created for manufacturers of critical pharmaceuticals with activity against the pandemic.
“Modelling of Phyto-Medicines with activity against COVID-19 has also been done.
“We have also developed alternative immune stimulants from Artemisis Annua plant and a Herbal Combination Therapy for management of COVID-19 in Nigeria,’’ he said.
