Nigeria has taken a major leap in the fight against HIV by launching West Africa’s first HIV vaccine research initiative, led by the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN), in collaboration with global health partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and USAID. The groundbreaking initiative focuses on HIV strains unique to the West African region, marking a significant step toward addressing this public health challenge.
Announced during IHVN's 20th-anniversary celebration in Abuja, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Patrick Dakum emphasized the project's importance, saying, “This research will finally bring attention to the unique HIV strains found in West Africa, which have long been overlooked in global vaccine development.”
Supported by a $34 million USAID grant, with $200,000 already allocated to kick-start the project, the initiative will specifically target West Africa’s HIV variants, which differ from those in other parts of Africa. Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, Executive Director of IHVN’s International Research Centre of Excellence, highlighted this need, noting, "We are ensuring that West Africa has a voice in the global conversation on HIV vaccine development." The research will include genetic sequencing of HIV strains and aims to create a vaccine tailored for clinical trials in the region.
The trials will start with preclinical testing, progressing to human trials involving thousands of individuals most at risk. Beyond the vaccine project, IHVN continues to drive public health initiatives in Nigeria, including its U.S.-funded “ASPIRE” program focused on HIV control in states like Nasarawa, Rivers, and Katsina.
IHVN's plans include future collaborations with academic institutions and the development of a new learning centre, further establishing Nigeria as a leader in healthcare innovation and HIV research in West Africa.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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