The International Research Center of Excellence (IRCE) of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) hosted its 3rd Annual Scientific Symposium in Abuja, Nigeria on the 8th & 9th September 2025.
The two-day event convened scientists, policymakers, early-career researchers, and global partners to examine emerging viral threats and strengthen Nigeria’s health security through evidence-based research, innovation, and collaboration.
Speaking at the Pre-symposium press briefing, the Executive Management of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) emphasized the need for increased investment in health research and stronger collaboration with government and international partners to address viral threats and strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness for future pandemics.
Professor Alash’le Abimiku, Executive Director (IRCE -IHVN) and the Convener of the Annual IRCE Scientific Symposia discussed the 2025 symposium’s focus on viral threats to public health. She noted that outbreaks such as COVID-19, diphtheria, and lassa fever continue to challenge the country’s health systems.
Click here to read the full details of the press briefing
https://ihvnigeria.org/ihvn-calls-for-stronger-investment-in-research-to-combat-viral-threats/
Read more on the IHVN blog
https://ihvnigeria.org/irce-hosts-3rd-annual-scientific-symposium-calls-for-greater-investment-in-health-research/
A Convergence of Science, Policy, and Collaboration
Across two intensive days, the symposium featured a blend of plenary sessions, technical presentations, and policy roundtables that showcased research and innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and practical innovations shaping Nigeria’s response to viral threats.
Discussions on viral surveillance and genomics revealed new insights into Mpox, Lassa fever, Dengue, and SARS-CoV-2, with experts from IHVN, NCDC, and the U.S. CDC emphasizing the use of genomic tools and early-warning systems for outbreak detection. Complementing this, state-level policymakers from Edo and Ondo shared lessons from managing Lassa and Dengue outbreaks, while the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC) highlighted national strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic capacity for pandemic response and research self-reliance.
Emerging technologies featured prominently, with African and international researchers demonstrating how data science, machine learning, and geospatial analytics can enhance surveillance, predict outbreaks, and optimize vaccine coverage. In parallel, One Health and antimicrobial resistance sessions underscored the importance of integrated approaches that connect human, animal, and environmental health systems to prevent zoonotic spillover and resistant infections.
A roundtable on vaccine uptake and hesitancy explored the social and behavioral drivers of vaccine confidence, proposing community-centered communication and engagement as vital tools for improving immunization coverage. The symposium also highlighted capacity building and mentorship, with early-career scientists from Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa presenting studies on viral genomics, HPV prevention, and vaccine mapping—demonstrating IRCE’s continued investment in Africa’s next generation of researchers.
The event drew strong representation from Nigerian and international public health leadership, including the Federal Ministry of Health, NCDC, NACA, NPHCDA, NiMET, NEMA, NASCP, and the U.S. CDC – reflecting a unified front between government, academia, industry partners and funders to advance science-driven solutions for epidemic preparedness and response.
Experience the 3rd IRCE Annual Scientific Symposium (ISS2024)
Theme: Combating Viral Threats Through Public Health Response and Research
