Dr Ifeyinwa “Ify” Aniebo Rhodes-Vivour, Nigerian molecular geneticist, has announced a landmark breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against malaria: the country’s first National Genomic Surveillance Platform, a cutting-edge system designed to track drug resistance and accelerate progress toward malaria elimination.
Dr Rhodes-Vivour, an Associate Professor at the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (formerly ACEGID), revealed that she has been leading Nigeria’s first-ever National Malaria Genomic Surveillance initiative since 2021. “It’s my brainchild,” she said, “and it is transforming how we detect, track, and fight malaria.”
The new platform enables real-time monitoring of drug-resistant malaria parasites, allowing health officials to respond swiftly to emerging threats. Nigeria bears the world’s highest malaria burden, accounting for nearly 27% of global cases and 31% of deaths. The platform’s genomic data will guide targeted interventions, optimise treatment protocols, and inform vaccine deployment across the country’s diverse ecological zones.
“Now, my team and I have built Nigeria’s first National Genomic Surveillance Platform, a breakthrough system designed to track drug resistance and accelerate the country’s journey toward malaria elimination,” Dr. Rhodes-Vivour stated.
Beyond scientific innovation, she emphasised her commitment to capacity building. “One of my greatest achievements has been building people. Along the way, I’ve trained and mentored members of my laboratory team, helping shape the next generation of scientists who will carry this mission even further.”
A Gates Foundation Calestous Juma Fellow and Aspen Institute New Voices Fellow, Dr Rhodes-Vivour is also the founder of AfroScientric, a social enterprise dedicated to mentoring and empowering African women pursuing careers in STEM fields. Her research integrates cutting-edge genomics into public health policy, creating lasting impact for Nigeria and global health.
“From pioneering genomic surveillance in the country to empowering future researchers, this journey has been about creating lasting impact for Nigeria and for global health,” she added.
The platform is expected to serve as a model for other malaria-endemic nations across Africa, demonstrating how local scientific leadership can drive continental progress. With this system, Nigeria takes a decisive step toward eliminating a disease that has claimed millions of lives and cost the economy billions annually.
Dr Rhodes-Vivour’s work stands as a testament to the power of homegrown innovation and mentorship in transforming public health.
The platform is now operational and poised to revolutionise malaria control strategies nationwide. Continue reading in the comments section. #nigeria24
