Osinbajo praised the efforts of Nigerian scientists to create COVID-19 drug
Nigerian professors and scientists investigating the use of Ivermectin
Ivermectin found useful not only in the treatment of COVID-19 but also as a prophylactic medication
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, saluted efforts by a team of Nigerian professors and scientists exploring the use of Ivermectin, a drug used in treating river blindness, in the prevention and treatment of the Coronavirus disease.
The team, comprised of Nigerian scholars at home and abroad, submitted their report on the usefulness of the drug to the World Health Organisation already picked a Peer Review expert from the United Kingdom.
Prof. Femi Babalola, the Principal investigator, and Prof. Chris Bode, the Chief Medical Director of LUTH on Monday, January 11, the Vice President expressed willingness that Nigeria and Nigerians “are at the cutting edge of scientific research into the COVID-19 treatment.”
According to him, “we have an opportunity here and I am so fascinated to hear this drug has been used in the treatment of River Blindness in this country.”
While praising the hard work of the team, Prof. Osinbajo added that with the report, Nigeria is at an advantage both in knowledge and availability of the drug, especially since Ivermectin found useful not only in the treatment of COVID-19 but also as a prophylactic medication.
He disclosed that the Federal Government will explore further ways to support the research for the benefit of Nigerians and humanity generally, while also advancing the effective funding of scientific research in the country.
The PI has worked extensively with Ivermectin on the Onchocerciasis-River Blindness control programme, through which many Nigerians used Ivermectin.
