Catalysing vaccines research, development and manufacturing in Nigeria: a qualitative exploration of industry...

The lack of local production of vaccines in Nigeria is a challenge contributing to limited access to healthcare. To address these vulnerabilities, the nation has committed efforts toward vaccine self-sufficiency through local production. However, this initiative has been met with a plethora of constraints. These include inadequate technical capacity, insufficient resources, limited infrastructure, procurement challenges, cold chain management, uncertain market mechanisms and a lack of funding. This study, therefore, aims to bridge this gap by articulating robust strategies for local vaccine production from the perspective of relevant stakeholders across different areas of the vaccine value chain.

A qualitative strategy was adopted to explore participants' perspectives on the strategies for sustainable local vaccine manufacturing in Nigeria. The study sample represented stakeholders practising across different areas of the vaccine value chain. Data obtained were analysed thematically to yield themes and sub-themes. Trustworthiness in the study was ensured through recommended frameworks.

Following data analysis, nine overarching themes were identified, which articulated the need to build capacity and an enabling environment for vaccine development in Nigeria. The findings showed that inadequate research capacity, weak infrastructure and poor commercialization frameworks constrain vaccine production, necessitating phased production initiation, strengthened research systems, infrastructural development and improved market access. Effective management and advocacy were found to be critical for securing government and stakeholders' commitment, as well as reducing vaccine hesitancy to support sustainable local vaccine production.

This study provides in-depth insights into the strategies for expediting the national objective to achieve vaccine self-sufficiency, including the establishment of an enabling policy and legislative environment to attract investment, streamline regulation and secure market access for locally produced vaccines. It emphasizes strengthening research and development capacity beyond fill-and-finish activities, addressing workforce skills gaps through training and technology transfer, and improving infrastructure through reliable power supply and vaccine industrial parks. Overall, the findings highlight the need for sustainable financing, stakeholder coordination, and strong government interventions to ensure the viability of local vaccine manufacturing. These insights can guide effective planning and comprehensive efforts into the requisite areas necessary for sustainable vaccine manufacturing in the country.