NIMR Warns Public About Fake LinkedIn Account Targeting Its Leadership
The Institute has raised the alarm over a fraudulent LinkedIn account impersonating its Director-General, Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa, cautioning citizens and business partners to ignore solicitations and deceptive offers linked to the fake profile. NIMR’s Media Consultant urged the public to verify official communications and report suspicious activity, reinforcing the importance of cyber safety even within scientific communities.
This proactive alert reflects NIMR’s commitment not only to scientific excellence but also to institutional integrity and public trust in a digital age where misinformation can compromise collaboration and research credibility.
Global Health Leaders Commend NIMR’s Emerging Role in mRNA Vaccine Research
In a development that highlights NIMR’s leading position in health research infrastructure, the Institute has been commended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) for its mRNA vaccine research initiative hosted in Lagos. Representatives from WHO and MPP toured the Institute’s facilities — including state-of-the-art laboratories and next-generation sequencing suites — noting that NIMR is well positioned to serve as a regional hub for mRNA vaccine research and development.
The visit emphasised NIMR’s readiness to harness advanced vaccine technology, which could enhance local capacities for vaccine R&D, training, and eventual vaccine production, with direct positive implications for Nigeria and surrounding countries.
Director-General Prof. Obafunwa expressed appreciation for the support, saying the collaboration would accelerate home-grown solutions to pressing health challenges and foster technology adoption that benefits ordinary Nigerians.
Why These Developments Matter for Nigeria’s Health and Innovation Landscape
Protecting Institutional Credibility & Public Trust
By calling out digital impersonation, NIMR safeguards its reputation and ensures that research collaborations and opportunities are authentic and transparent, crucial for attracting investors, partners, and talent.
Strengthening Research Capacity
Recognition by WHO and MPP reflects international confidence in Nigeria’s research infrastructure, positioning NIMR as a regional leader in advanced vaccine science and expanding its role beyond national borders.
Impact on Public Health Policy and Implementation
Investments and partnerships in mRNA vaccine research signal progress toward locally relevant health technologies, potentially reducing reliance on imported vaccines and reinforcing Nigeria’s role in the global health research ecosystem.
