Nigeria's post-COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing ambitions: Opportunities and regional implications

Global health emergencies consistently expose and exacerbate vaccine inequities, with high-income countries prioritising their populations and leaving low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) facing delays and shortages. Diseases primarily affecting LMICs receive limited attention from global vaccine developers because of perceived low market value and limited financial return, further entrenching these disparities. Africa's limited investment in vaccine manufacturing has heightened its vulnerability during outbreaks, including yellow fever, Ebola, meningococcal meningitis, mpox, and most recently, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

This study examines the barriers to vaccine equity in Africa and critically analyses Nigeria's post-COVID-19 efforts to establish a viable, local vaccine manufacturing ecosystem.

The research focuses on Nigeria within the broader African vaccine manufacturing landscape, using it as a case study to explore both national and continental dynamics.

The study draws on document analysis of strategic plans, regulatory reports, and partnership announcements, complemented by qualitative insights from key informant interviews with stakeholders involved in vaccine policy, regulation, and production in Nigeria and across West Africa.

Post-pandemic momentum has catalysed significant shifts: Nigeria has developed a national vaccine manufacturing strategy and secured international partnerships and financing commitments. The regulatory authority, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), achieved the World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3 status, marking critical progress. Nonetheless, persistent gaps remain in research and development capacity, workforce development, regulatory agility, and infrastructure readiness.

While Nigeria has made notable progress since the COVID-19 pandemic, sustainable vaccine manufacturing requires long-term investment in research and development, policy reform, skills development, and regional cooperation. Failure to address these challenges systematically risks undermining current gains.

This article provides insights to support ongoing and future investments in Nigeria's vaccine manufacturing sector, guiding government policy, international partnerships, and potential investors.