The College of Medicine at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has recently established the Centre for Clinical Trials, Research, and Implementation Science (CCTRIS) with the aim of strengthening capabilities in medical research.

During the event, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, expressed that Nigeria and Africa as a whole have not made significant progress in the field of clinical trials. Prof. Lucian Chukwu represented her at the event and highlighted that the establishment of the centre is timely as it will bolster research efforts in clinical trials and implementation science. Prof. Ogunsola emphasized that despite the significant population in Africa, the region has not received adequate recognition in the realm of clinical trials.

Africa's representation in global clinical trials is significantly lacking, accounting for only approximately 2.5% of ongoing trials. Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, stressed the importance of the Centre for Clinical Trials, Research, and Implementation Science (CCTRIS), stating that its official launch is well-timed. She expressed satisfaction that the institution is taking the lead in establishing this center. Prof. Ogunsola emphasized that CCTRIS's implementation science would play a vital role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The Vice-Chancellor urged the CCTRIS Director to strive for the center to gain recognition as a renowned facility for clinical research.

Prof. David Oke, the Provost of the College of Medicine at UNILAG, emphasized the crucial role of medical research in positioning the institution as a global leader. He stated that the center's primary focus would be on fostering innovative research and advancing treatment options for various medical conditions. Prof. Osaretin Ebuehi, the Deputy Provost, represented Prof. Oke at the event. Prof. Oke further explained that the primary objective of UNILAG, as the top-ranking university in the country, is to become a world-class, research-intensive medical college that excels in providing high-quality education and plays a leading role in healthcare advancement.

The presence of a world-class center like CCTRIS in our institution is both necessary and well-justified, and it is poised to become a leading entity in the field of clinical trials. Prof. Bosede Afolabi, the Director of the Centre, expressed the center's aspiration to establish itself as a prominent institution in clinical trials and implementation. Afolabi highlighted that the center's objectives include enhancing capacity through postgraduate programs and conducting interdisciplinary research. Additionally, the center will offer administrative and project management services to the clinical research community in the country.