Pioneering Global Health Collaboration

In a groundbreaking meeting held on January 20, and February 10, 2025, the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, and the University of Manchester, UK, formally kicked off what promises to be a transformative partnership in global health research and education. The event marked the 1st Virtual Collaboration Meeting between the two institutions, bringing together clinicians, academics, researchers, and postgraduate scholars with a shared goal: to drive impactful research and improve healthcare outcomes through cross-border collaboration.

The meeting featured key stakeholders and experts from both institutions, including:

• Dung Jidong (Division of Psychology & Mental Health, University of Manchester).
• Nusrat Hussein (Professor of Psychiatry, Director of Research, Global Centre for Mental Health Inequalities).
• Izu Ichuasi (Head of Pathology & Deputy Head of Clinical Services, FMC Abuja).
• Abiodun (Cardiologist & Head of Health & Safety, FMC Abuja).
• Bioku Muftau (Clinical Specialist, FMC Abuja).
• Clinical psychologists and research assistants including Mr. Shadrack Mwankon, Mr. Francis Christopher, and Mr. John Jidong.

FMC Abuja: A Beacon of Clinical and Research Excellence

Dr. Bioku Muftau presented an impressive overview of FMC Abuja’s clinical services and research priorities. As a multi-specialty tertiary institution, FMC Abuja is renowned for its surgical expertise, particularly in open-heart, spinal, and liver surgeries. It was notably awarded Best Public-Owned Hospital in the Commonwealth in 2022 and continues to stand as the most preferred hospital in Nigeria according to independent surveys.

The institution plays a critical role in training a wide range of healthcare professionals—from postgraduate doctors to medical laboratory scientists—and has ongoing collaborations with prestigious bodies such as the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) and the University of Miami.

Mapping the Research Landscape: Priorities and Action Plans

Led by Prof. Nusrat Hussein, the discussion outlined a forward-looking research agenda with an emphasis on cardiology, mental health, and pathology. Proposed initiatives include

• Investigating the role of inflammation in depression and heart disease.
• Launching a clinical audit within FMC Abuja.
• Collaborative research on multimorbidity in Africa, examining the burden of disease through cohort studies and health economics.
• Replicating psychiatric-cardiology comorbidity studies initially conducted in Pakistan.
• Developing clinical audit protocols and strengthening grant application strategies.
• Establishing a Research Centre of Excellence in Psychological Medicine in Abuja.

Mr. Shadrack Mwankon, Mr. Francis Christopher, and Mr. John Jidong were tasked with drafting the initial proposal for the cardiology clinical audit.

Spotlight on Cardiology and Pathology

Dr. Abiodun shared insights into the ongoing cardiological work at FMC Abuja. Currently in the fourth year of a five-year randomized control trial on urinary proteomics and low blood pressure telemonitoring, his team has also conducted multiple audits on hypertension and heart failure. These efforts have already yielded several peer-reviewed publications.

Dr. Izu Ichuasi elaborated on the pathology department’s services, highlighting its critical role in processing a wide array of clinical samples, from breast and colorectal tissue to neurosurgical brain biopsies. The department is well-equipped with modern diagnostic tools and has significant potential for supporting cutting-edge research.

A Vision for Psychological Medicine in Africa

A significant highlight of the meeting was the proposal to establish a Centre for Research Excellence in Psychological Medicine at FMC Abuja. As articulated by Prof. Hussein and Dr. Jidong, this centre will aim to:

• Integrate research across physical and mental health domains.
• Foster multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Offer doctoral training and capacity-building opportunities.

Dr. Bioku expressed strong support for this initiative, noting that a dedicated mental health facility is currently under construction at FMC Abuja and could house the proposed centre.

Next Steps and Sustained Momentum

The meeting concluded with a series of action points to maintain momentum:

• Development of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between FMC Abuja, University of Manchester, and University of Toronto.
• Greater involvement of cardiologists and medical students in upcoming projects.
• Monthly interdisciplinary meetings to track progress.
• A focused session on Obstetrics and Cardiology scheduled for the next meeting.
• Strengthened networking with relevant institutions and research entities.

In closing, Dr. Dung Jidong thanked all participants, emphasizing the importance of structured, goal-oriented collaboration to address pressing health issues both in Nigeria and globally.

Conclusion

This meeting marks the beginning of a promising partnership rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and the ambition to tackle complex health challenges through innovative research. With strong institutional commitment and a clear roadmap, the collaboration between FMC Abuja and the University of Manchester is set to make a lasting impact on healthcare systems in Africa and beyond.