Former Lagos State governor Babatunde Fashola urged private sector engagement to enhance funding for medical research in Nigeria, emphasizing that government resources alone are insufficient. During a NIMR media chat, he highlighted the country's potential for innovative research that is hindered by financial constraints. Fashola mentioned that the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) requires increased support to address diseases like diabetes and hypertension. He announced the mobilization of N502 million for NIMR, benefiting 120 researchers, and called for reforms to secure dedicated research funding. NIMR's Director General, Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, pointed out the need for improved human resources and infrastructure, while the Foundation reported growth in research funding despite challenges in meeting its £44,000 grant target.