Vice President Kashim Shettima has officially launched the Grand Challenges Nigeria (GCNg) initiative, a national innovation program aimed at transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape by fostering locally developed solutions. The program, part of the global Grand Challenges Network, will initially focus on addressing maternal and child health challenges.
Speaking at the launch event held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima emphasized the necessity of the initiative, citing the rapid advancements in science and technology.
“This initiative is more than a response to problems; it is an avenue to promote groundbreaking research, build local expertise, form strategic partnerships, and engage communities in co-creating culturally relevant solutions,” Shettima said.
He noted that the program aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s strategy to contextualize solutions to Nigeria’s unique challenges.
Integration with Existing Health Initiatives
GCNg will complement existing healthcare programs, such as the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and the Nutrition 774 Programme, aiming for a Nigeria where:
- Every child has access to proper nutrition.
- Families can trust the quality of the healthcare system.
- Public health metrics improve annually.
Call for Proposals and Global Integration
The Vice President announced an immediate call for proposals under the theme: “Advancing Innovative Solutions for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health.”
The program will tackle a range of challenges, including:
- Infectious Diseases
- Food Security
- Climate Resilience
Shettima highlighted the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s progress with the global community and reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to providing necessary support for innovative solutions.
Stakeholder Endorsements
Key stakeholders commended the initiative:
- Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, praised GCNg as a vital step toward realizing President Tinubu’s innovation-driven prosperity agenda.
- Hon. Chike Okafor, Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, pledged legislative support for the program, especially in combating food insecurity and malnutrition.
- His Highness Muhammad Sanusi II, Chairman of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, emphasized the need for collective action to address malnutrition and food insecurity.
- Prof. Salisu Abubakar, President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, expressed commitment to ensuring inclusive and adaptable solutions through GCNg.
The Grand Challenges Nigeria initiative is positioned to empower researchers and innovators, driving locally sourced solutions to critical issues in healthcare and nutrition. With strong backing from the Federal Government and diverse stakeholders, GCNg is poised to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s health sector and beyond.
