FG Inaugurates National Health Research Ethics Committee

"The establishment of the National Health Research Ethics Committee reflects the government unwavering dedication to fostering a healthcare system that is rooted in integrity, transparency and ethical conduct." Alausa

The Federal Government has inaugurated the National Health Research Ethic Committee to regulate health research  and ensure that it meets all ethical criteria as part of the Ministry of Health's four point agenda.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held recently at the Ministry of Health in Abuja, the Minister noted that the establishment of the National Health Research Ethics Committee reflects the government unwavering dedication to fostering a healthcare system that is rooted in integrity, transparency and ethical conduct.

Alausa, in a statement issued and signed by Patricia Deworitshe, Director Press and Public Relations Department of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, stated that members of NHREC are appointed in line with the National  Health Act of 2014, which clearly lists out the criteria, roles and responsibilities of the committee affirming that, "the ethical dimensions of health research cannot be overstated. 

“In our pursuit of scientific advancement  and medical breakthrough, we must ensure that the rights, dignity and wellbeing of research participants are protected," he adduced.

The Minister reiterated that National Health Research Ethics Committee will play a crucial role in providing health research direction while ensuring that  responses are rooted in scientific rigor, compassion and a deep sense of social responsibility.

The Committee comprises of eminent individuals from diverse backgrounds entrusted with the crucial task of overseeing and guiding ethical practices in Health research across the nation. 

Members of the Committee are:

1. Prof. Richard Adegbola -  Chairman 

2. Dr. Adedeji Adefuye

3. Barr. A B Malle

4. Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Iliya

5. Prof.Saleh Garba Ngaski

6. Dr. Geoffrey Okatubo

7. Prof. Misbau Rufai

8. Mrs. Ayodele Rotimi

9. Prof. Lawal Ahmadu Kuki

10. Prof. M A Sule

11. Mr. Ibrahim Muhd Mami

12. Mr. Ahmadu Adamu

13.  Dr. UAC Okafor

14. Dr.  Amina Ahmad Sheu.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Kachollom Daju, said health research is essential for the  advancement of healthcare and the development of new treatment for diseases. 

According to her, "in Nigeria, many different research studies are ongoing ranging from socio-behavioural studies  to clinical trials at various levels. They are aimed at providing evidence that may lead to the development of new tools  and methods for the control of our major diseases, such as Malaria, HIV/AIDS, Vaccine which are preventable."

Daju explained that, “as we continue to promote health research in order to contribute towards improving the health status of Nigerians, we have taken it upon ourselves to strengthen NHREC to provide for and ensure adherence to a regulation for the protection of human  participants in research.” She said.

In his acceptance speech, the Chairman  of the Committee, Prof Richard Adegbola noted that inaugural Committee is a testimony to the readiness of the Federal Government to take a giant step forward in promotion and safeguarding the ethical standard of health research, a cornerstone for progress, and prosperity  in our country.

Adegbola assured that the Committee will strive to live up to its responsibilities  while ensuring that Industry adheres to ethical standard as legally prescribed.

Expressing his gratitude to Federal Government and the Ministry, the Chairman, on behalf of the Committee,  assured of its determination to maintain unity and a shared commitment  to ethical excellence in facilitating impactful health research in our Country.

Deworitshe Patricia 

D (Information)

23/01/2024