The Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH), Lafia, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) for vaccine research and development.

The event, chaired by Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, had in attendance Hassan Ikrama, the chief medical director (CMD) of FUTH, and Obi Adigwe, director-general of the NIPRD.

NIPRD is a research institute that develops and promotes traditional medicine and pharmaceutical products. It ensures quality control and provides training and capacity-building in pharmaceutical research and development.

Speaking at the event, Mr Pate said the agreement formalises a strategic partnership aimed at boosting vaccine research and addressing its needs in Nasarawa State and beyond.

The minister noted that the collaboration would ensure research into vaccine development and the production of medicines to prevent the spread of Lassa fever.

“NIPRD has the expertise as a centre of excellence, while FUTH, in addition to providing expertise across various fields, would also provide the study participants and laboratory services needed for research trials,” Mr Pate said.

In his response, the director-general of NIPRD thanked the minister for witnessing the MoU signing and the CMD for showing commitment and resilience towards the success of the exercise.

On his part, the CMD of FUTH commended the federal government for its commitment to the health sector, especially in the area of vaccines and research innovation.

The CND promised that the hospital would continue to invest in research with a view towards addressing some of the dangerous diseases posing serious threats to human life.

(NAN)