I was privileged to be a part of The Guardian Nigeria’s “Guardian Woman Means Business” series, where I shared my thoughts on maternal and reproductive healthcare as well as leadership and administration. Click here to read the full story: https://guardian.ng/guardian-woman/guardian-woman-means-business-with-bosede-bukola-afolabi/
Bosede Bukola Afolabi Featured in The Guardian Nigeria Read More »
We recently celebrated a significant moment in our journey, the close-out ceremony of the IVON clinical trial that took place on January 18th, 2024 at Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA, Ikeja. In attendance were stakeholders from the Minister of Health, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Kano State Ministry of Health, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Lagos State Health Service Commission, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). While the official end of the trial occurred on October 31st, 2023, the ceremony allowed us to reflect on the immense accomplishment we achieved. The IVON clinical trial stands as a major milestone, marking the completion of the largest study worldwide on intravenous versus oral iron in pregnancy. The IVON trial aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of IV iron (intravenous ferric carboxymaltose) to oral ferrous sulfate for the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnant Nigerian women. Conducted across 11 health facilities in Kano and Lagos states, a total of 1,056 pregnant women at 20–32 weeks’ gestational age with moderate or severe anaemia were randomised into two groups. The intervention arm received one dose of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose(IV iron) at enrollment, while the control arm received thrice-daily oral ferrous sulfate tablets from enrollment until 6 weeks postpartum. All participants were followed up until 6 weeks post-partum. The results showed that in comparison to oral iron, intravenous iron is safe and more effective in correcting iron deficiency anaemia. Our success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of an extraordinary team. With over 80 co-investigators, statisticians, data managers, coordinating doctors, research nurses, research assistants, administrative staff, finance officers, legal advisers, consultants, and supervisors, each individual played a crucial role in the project’s success. Their collective effort and expertise propelled us to achieve what was once deemed impossible. A heartfelt expression of gratitude goes to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for entrusting us with this vital work. Their support and partnership have been instrumental in realising the goals of the IVON clinical trial, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing medical research. Our deepest appreciation, however, goes to the wonderful pregnant Nigerian women who graciously participated in this rigorous clinical trial. Their willingness to be part of this groundbreaking study underscores the importance of community involvement in advancing healthcare. It is through their participation that we can now contribute invaluable insights to the global understanding of iron supplementation in pregnancy. As we reflect on this journey, we stand proud of the accomplishments achieved and the lives impacted by the IVON clinical trial. This moment is not just an end but a new beginning, a testament to what collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision can achieve in the realm of medical research. Thanks to everyone who played a part in this remarkable journey. The close-out ceremony was not just an event, it was a celebration of the collective efforts that have the potential to shape the future of maternal health worldwide.
Celebrating a Milestone: IVON Clinical Trial Close-out Ceremony. Read More »
Maternal health is a fundamental aspect of a thriving society. Unfortunately, many women and girls in low-income communities face significant challenges when it comes to accessing equitable, high-quality, and respectful healthcare. We have made it our mission in MRHR Collective to change this reality by partnering with national and local governments, as well as private healthcare providers and also spearheading initiatives that are reshaping the landscape of maternal healthcare in Nigeria. One of the cornerstones of MRHR Collective’s work is delivering programs that make a real difference. Through these programs, we gather invaluable evidence that allows us to continually refine and improve our initiatives, ensuring that the most effective solutions are put in place. Other initiatives include empowering healthcare workers, advocacy for strengthening healthcare systems, supporting maternal health financing. So far, one of MRHR Collective’s recent achievements was the ‘Keep Her Alive’ campaign in October, which aimed to raise awareness of the high maternal mortality rate in Nigeria and raise funds to support vulnerable pregnant Nigerian women. The campaign included: MRHR Collective’s Keep Her Alive campaign success is not a solo endeavor. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, including, Sterling One foundation, Sterling Bank, Redwire Group, i-Fitness gym, Palms mall, Amstel Malta, Nigerian Breweries, SOGON, AFEMSON amongst others, for their outstanding contributions. These partnerships have been instrumental in MRHR Collective’s ability to make a positive impact. MRHR Collective is on a journey to transform maternal healthcare in Nigeria. Our holistic approach, from training healthcare workers to financing pregnant women and initiatives, and raising awareness through impactful campaigns, is setting a new standard for maternal health in the country. MRHRC is not just an organization; we are a beacon of hope and change for women and girls in low-income communities. Our dedication and achievements are a testament to the power of collective action in addressing critical healthcare challenges in Nigeria.
MRHR Collective: Transforming Maternal Healthcare in Nigeria Read More »
Prof. Bosede Afolabi, through her visionary leadership at the Medical Research Hub (MRH), is driving a paradigm shift in healthcare innovation by promoting collaboration and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals. Within MRH, a culture of collaboration thrives as experts from diverse fields join forces to tackle complex healthcare issues. Prof. Afolabi’s strong emphasis on teamwork cultivates an environment that nurtures creativity and fosters groundbreaking discoveries. The primary objective of MRH is to expedite medical research and translate its findings into practical solutions. Prof. Afolabi ensures that this objective is met by implementing mentorship programs, research grants, and training opportunities that empower aspiring healthcare leaders. Additionally, MRH remains at the forefront of healthcare technology by leveraging artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and digital solutions to improve patient care and outcomes.Prof. Afolabi’s vision encompasses a deep understanding of the transformative potential of technology in revolutionizing healthcare delivery. Under her guidance, MRH serves as a model for sustainable healthcare practices, with a focus on eco-friendly infrastructure and research methodologies. Furthermore, her global perspective drives collaborations with international institutions, establishing a network of researchers and professionals who collectively address global healthcare challenges. Through Prof. Bosede Afolabi’s leadership, MRH is redefining the landscape of healthcare innovation by fostering collaboration, empowering future healthcare professionals, embracing technology, and adopting sustainable practices. The ripple effects of her visionary approach are transforming the local healthcare ecosystem and contributing to global advancements in healthcare delivery and research.
On the 24th of May 2023, the Centre for Clinical Trials, Research, and Implementation Science, (CCTRIS) was officially launched and shared with the world. CCTRIS is an innovative hub created to investigate the health and well-being of the population from a globally acceptable perspective by developing capacity and acting as advocates for the conduct of clinical trials, high quality research, and the emerging discipline of implementation science. The launch event was inspiring as it was loaded with inspirational keynote speeches, interactive discussions, collaboration opportunities, and the unveiling of detailed research findings. It served as an excellent venue for attendees to build connections and partnerships. Many participants from academic institutions around the world including Belgium, UK and USA, industry leaders, Directors from the Federal, Lagos and Kano State ministries of health, Directors from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), members of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Reproductive Unit Head of the World Health Organisation, amongst others, actively participated, shared ideas and explored future collaborations. Senior members of the University of Lagos and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital were also present including the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellors and the Chief Medical Director (CMD). During the session, Professor Bosede Afolabi, the director of the centre and a researcher with considerable experience in cutting-edge clinical research and implementation science, presented vital insights and skills. Her presence and achievements boosted the collaborative environment and motivated attendees to seek novel ways of conducting clinical research. Professor Bosede Afolabi’s and the CCTRIS team will surely continue to impact and shape the centre’s future activities to fill the gap in the conduct of clinical trials and implementation science research and help design practical solutions to our national health problems.
Revolutionary Launch of CCTRIS: Creating a Global Impact on Clinical Trials and Research Read More »