In response to the increasing need for effective medications in Nigeria, stakeholders are advocating for collaborative translational pharmaceutical research and drug development involving the pharmaceutical sector, academia, and the community.

During the Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training (IAMRAT) Day symposium, Professor Kunle Olabayo emphasized the high demand for traditional medicine in Nigeria.

He suggested that partnering with pharmaceutical industries to translate research findings on Nigerian medicinal plants can help meet this demand.

The theme of the IAMRAT Day symposium was “Translational pharmaceutical research and drug development: the Role of Research Institutes.”

Professor Olabayo emphasized that the benefits of translational research in drug development can only be realized when academics and pharmaceutical industries collaborate as equal partners.

However, research must be tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals seeking to use traditional medicines. Meanwhile, Mrs.

Yetunde Adigun from Swipha Pharmaceutical Company noted that translational research in Nigeria has been hindered due to limited studies on safety and efficacy, identification and quantification of active substances, and analytical method development and validation, which are essential for drug development.

She mentioned, “The first part is the limitation in the quantity; where are the studies that have produced useful results? It also gets harder for someone else to take up that project if you are unable to demonstrate safety and efficacy in Phases 1 and 2 clinical trials.

“Also, we, industry, are skeptics. Our prior disappointments are the source of our cynicism. And because there is a big chance of failure, we decide against investing. Investing might be challenging if the finances don’t make sense. Therefore, I believe that the best course of action is to “know what your customer wants.”

Mrs. Sade Ajayi, a community pharmacist, emphasized the importance of ensuring patient access to innovative medicines, including custom-made or compounded medications, at the right dose and time. She suggested creating a platform for academics to showcase their new pharmaceuticals for manufacturers to invest in.

Professor Kayode Adebowale, represented by Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju, praised the Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training (IAMRAT) for its groundbreaking research in various fields over the past 44 years.

Professor Olayinka Omigbodun, Provost College of Medicine, stressed the importance of collaboration between industry and researchers to maximize the potential of research findings and meet customer needs.

Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, Oyo State Health Commissioner, recognized IAMRAT’s impact over the years and called for continued collaboration and innovation in pharmaceutical research for a healthier future in Nigeria.

Professor Ikeoluwapo Ajayi, director of IAMRAT, highlighted the institute’s role in coordinating multidisciplinary research programs and translating laboratory findings for clinical and industrial use. The celebration of IAMRAT Day aims to ensure the institute’s legacy and continued growth in medical sciences.