Lagos convenes experts’ meeting to boost health research

• Sets Up Steering Committee to Drive Health Research Agenda

In a groundbreaking move to strengthen health research and policy in Lagos State, the Ministry of Health convened a strategic high-level meeting on Thursday, January 9, 2024. The meeting, which brought together Vice-Chancellors, renowned researchers, and top government officials, was held at the Ministry’s conference room.

Chaired by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, the meeting addressed the urgent need for coordinated research efforts, particularly in the face of global concerns about a potential respiratory health threat. The aim was to develop early-warning mechanisms for prompt detection and response through evidence-based research.

In attendance were Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health; Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health; Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos; Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, Vice-Chancellor of the Lagos State University of Science and Technology and Chairman of the Lagos State Health Research Committee; Prof. Anjonuma, representing Lagos State University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji Bello; Prof. John Obafunwa, Director General of NIMR; and Prof. Akin Osibogun, Acting Chairman of the Lagos State Biosecurity Governing Council. Other notable attendees included Prof. Ololade Wright, Dr. Olajumoke Oyenuga, Dr. Toni Adeyemi, and representatives from intellectual property consultancy and the HCH office.

In his welcome address, Prof. Abayomi stressed the importance of harmonized research efforts in Lagos State. “We are entering an era where organized research is vital. By integrating resources and avoiding siloed efforts, we can advance Lagos as a hub for cutting-edge health research,” he said. He added that Lagos has significant potential in the global research landscape.

Highlighting the global evolution of research and its implications for Africa, Prof. Abayomi discussed the need for collaborative approaches. He explained that creating consortiums to pool resources could accelerate research outcomes. “The faster we adapt to these new methodologies, the better positioned we are to tackle emerging health threats,” he remarked.

Recounting achievements in the last decade, the Commissioner highlighted key milestones, including the establishment of the Lagos State Biobank, the Smart Health Information Platforms (SHIP), a Grant Management Office, and an Intellectual Property desk. These, he said, have positioned Lagos to become a leader in health innovation.

Concluding, Prof. Abayomi underscored the economic benefits of health research, linking it to improved GDP and overall development. “There is undeniable evidence that investment in research drives economic growth. Lagos is poised to be at the forefront of this movement,” he concluded.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, in her remarks, emphasized the importance of translating research into actionable policy. She noted, “Research aligned with policy is key to solving pressing health challenges. With the calibre of experts in this room, we can set a proper course for impactful research and governance.”

The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, noted that funding and dissemination of research findings remain critical challenges. “We need to bridge the gap between researchers and policymakers to ensure that findings are well-communicated and impactful,” he said.

After robust deliberations, the stakeholders resolved to form a Research Steering Committee for the Lagos State Ministry of Health. The committee will meet periodically to provide strategic direction and ensure that research plays a pivotal role in shaping health policy and practice in Lagos.

This landmark meeting sets the stage for Lagos to become a model for integrating research into health governance, ensuring a healthier and more resilient state.