In a rapidly evolving digital world, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a defining force in how research is conceived, developed, and disseminated. Recognizing this, the African Scholars Mentorship Network (ASMN) under the DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), in collaboration with C-SET (Centre for Socially Engaged Theatre), University of Regina, and Mobile Research Lab, hosted Episode 2 of its Bootcamp 6.0 series on “Leveraging AI for Credible Research Writing.”
The virtual session, held on November 2, 2025, featured two dynamic facilitators — Dr. Chinwe Igiri, Acting Director, ODeL at Mountain Top University, and Dr. Judith Ani of Walter Sisulu University, South Africa — with Prof. Evans Osabuohien, Chair of DIaDeRC, serving as host.
Exploring AI’s Role in Research
AI is reshaping every phase of the research process — from brainstorming and literature synthesis to data analysis and grant writing. As Dr. Judith Ani emphasized in her presentation, “AI can serve as a co-thinker, assistant, and collaborator — not a replacement.”
The session unpacked how postgraduate students and emerging scholars can use generative AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance clarity, structure, and efficiency in research writing. However, participants were cautioned against blind reliance on AI outputs, which may contain fabricated data or hallucinated citations.
Balancing Innovation with Integrity
A recurring theme in the discussion was academic integrity. Dr. Ani noted that “Full disclosure is required — hidden or unverified AI use amounts to academic misconduct.” Scholars were encouraged to always document which AI tools they use, the purpose, and how outputs were verified.
Key ethical practices highlighted include:
Disclosing the AI tool, version, and use case in the methodology or acknowledgments section.
Verifying all AI-generated claims and cross-checking references.
Maintaining human oversight and disciplinary grounding.
Avoiding plagiarism or mechanical writing that lacks originality.
AI Misuse and Cautions
Dr. Ani presented real-life cases illustrating AI misuse. In one instance, a lawyer in New York faced penalties for submitting fake AI-generated citations. Another involved a professor who wrongly failed students based on ChatGPT’s false confirmation. These cases underscored AI’s lack of a truth filter and the necessity of human verification.
Using AI Smartly
Participants were guided on prompt engineering — crafting precise and contextual prompts that yield relevant outputs. Dr. Ani demonstrated how researchers can use AI to refine research questions, improve clarity, and structure grant proposals, but always rewrite in their own voice and retain contextual insight.
Practical tips included:
Keeping a log of AI prompts and outputs.
Using AI for clarity, not content creation.
Discussing AI use openly with supervisors and collaborators.
What Funders Are Saying
Dr. Ani also shared insights from funding agencies that have begun flagging overly AI-generated proposals. Funders reportedly favour authenticity, conceptual depth, and contextual relevance over polished but shallow writing. The key takeaway: AI fluency does not equal research credibility.
Final Reflections
The session closed with a compelling reminder from Dr. Ani: “AI won’t replace you, but someone who uses it well might.” Participants were urged to balance efficiency with integrity, always disclosing and validating AI-assisted outputs. The Bootcamp reaffirmed ASMN’s commitment to nurturing responsible and innovative African researchers who can harness technology ethically and effectively.
A mega rally was organized to enhance ongoing sensitization efforts aimed at increasing the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The initiative was implemented by Education and Research for Sustainable Development (ERSDI) under the leadership of Dr. Judith I. Ani, in partnership with the International Vaccine Access Centre (IVAC), Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria (DCL), National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Women Advocates for Vaccine Access (WAVA), and the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN). The event was supported with funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, through Johns Hopkins.
The campaign was strategically planned to coincide with a major market day in order to reach a broad and diverse audience. Market days typically attract large crowds, including traders, buyers, and visitors from various areas, offering an effective platform for public health engagement. The primary objectives of the rally were to increase public awareness about the importance of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer, address widespread myths and misconceptions about the vaccine, encourage vaccination among girls aged 9 to 14, and advocate for its integration into routine immunization schedules.
Activities began in the morning hours with a courtesy visit to a traditional leader whose community hosts one of the major markets targeted for the rally. The leader expressed strong support for the vaccination campaign and commended the efforts of the organizers, noting the relevance of the rally in reaching a wider population. Sensitization activities were conducted across two major markets, beginning with one and proceeding to the other, which is widely known for its extensive commercial activity and segmented trading zones, including those for automotive parts, electrical goods, timber, building materials, and general merchandise. The presence of many women involved in trading in these markets provided an important opportunity to address female audiences directly.
With the support of market leadership and key executives, the sensitization team conducted outreach across various sections of the markets. Informational materials were shared, and discussions were held with traders and customers to provide accurate information about the HPV vaccine. Misconceptions were actively addressed, and the campaign generated excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Mass Administration Campaign (MAC).
The rally was considered successful, having reached a large number of individuals and fostered greater understanding and acceptance of HPV vaccination. The event also highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration in public health initiatives. In addition to the primary partners, ERSDI acknowledged support received from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), MWAN Anambra State Chapter, MWAN National Maternal & Child Health Committee, market leaders, and supportive local businesses including St. Joseph Cakes and Events and Kenan MultiLinks.
The mega rally served as a key mobilization effort to promote HPV vaccine uptake and cervical cancer prevention. It demonstrated the effectiveness of community-centered strategies and reinforced the need for ongoing collaboration between health authorities, civil society organizations, and local stakeholders in addressing public health challenges.
Links to media coverage of the event, pictures of newspaper publications
In a quiet corner of Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, a powerful conversation unfolded—one that has long been overdue in rural communities across Nigeria. On August 28, 2021, over 200 men and women from Ngwo gathered for a health sensitisation and awareness outreach that tackled two silent killers: breast and prostate cancer.
The outreach, led by Dr. Judith I. Ani and supported by multiple local and international partners, was not just another community programme. It was a deeply personal, interactive, and educational encounter that sought to break myths, dispel fear, and promote early detection.
A Community-Centered Approach
This outreach was rooted in the belief that health education should be inclusive, accessible, and tailored to the realities of underserved communities. From the outset, community stakeholders were actively involved. Their support was instrumental in mobilising participants and ensuring materials were translated into local languages to improve understanding and engagement.
It wasn’t just about raising awareness—it was about empowering people with knowledge. Discussions focused on understanding risk factors, early signs, and the importance of regular screening. The session also addressed long-held misconceptions and encouraged open dialogue. For many, it was the first time they were hearing accurate, context-relevant information about these diseases.
Action Beyond Words
What made this outreach remarkable was the move from talk to tangible action. Fifteen women underwent free Clinical Breast Examinations (CBE) conducted by medical professionals. Among them, five were found with suspicious lumps and were referred for further medical evaluation. These moments underscored the power of timely intervention and the life-saving potential of community health initiatives.
There were challenges, of course. A scheduled guest speaker from out of state couldn’t make it due to travel disruptions, and some religious sensitivities led to a few women opting out of the physical exam. But even these hurdles highlighted the importance of culturally respectful health interventions and the need for more female medical practitioners in such efforts.
Partnerships that Powered the Impact
The event’s success was made possible by a strong network of partners, including Inspire World International Foundation, BRECAN, LAPO, Niola Cancer Care Foundation, and Jasons Health Organisation, among others. These organisations provided technical, financial, and human resource support that brought the vision to life.
A particularly heartening endorsement came from the office of the Local Government Chairman, whose representative not only attended but expressed interest in replicating the programme across other wards. This shows the growing recognition of grassroots health initiatives as critical tools for public health.
The Journey Ahead
This outreach was not a one-off event. It’s a stepping stone toward more robust, sustainable community health engagement. Plans are underway for a “Pink October” digital series, featuring voices of breast cancer survivors, medical professionals, and public health experts. Additionally, efforts are being made to formally register the initiative, expand its outreach, and secure funding to ensure continuity.
At the heart of it all is a simple but powerful mission: to save lives through education, early detection, and community empowerment.
Because in places like Ngwo—and indeed across Nigeria—awareness is not just the first step. Sometimes, it’s the only chance someone has.
In November 2024, Dr. Judith Ani inspired and mentored young people during the Ngwo Youth Creative Forum (NYCF) and Teen’s Summit held in Enugu State, Nigeria. Her presentation, titled “Understanding the Challenges that Hinder Success in the Pursuit of Excellence,” was a powerful engagement aimed at equipping teenagers with the right mindset, knowledge, and motivation to pursue excellence despite the obstacles that often derail many from realizing their full potential.
During her talk, Dr. Ani guided the young audience through a meaningful exploration of what excellence truly means. Rather than equating it with perfection, she defined excellence as the consistent pursuit of being good at what one does. This concept, she explained, is rooted in personal commitment, high standards, focus, resilience, and a strong belief in oneself and in God. Excellence, according to her, requires a growth mindset, continuous self-improvement, goal setting, and the ability to live above mediocrity. She emphasized that it is not a final destination but a continuous journey of self-betterment. As part of her mentorship, she identified several challenges that often hinder young people from achieving excellence. These include negative mindsets, fear of failure, distractions, limited access to mentorship, scarce resources, unhealthy lifestyles, and poor time management. Mental health concerns like self-doubt, depression, and a loss of direction were also mentioned. Despite these barriers, Dr. Ani firmly asserted that there are no valid excuses for a determined mind, reinforcing the belief that every youth has the potential to succeed if they remain focused and intentional.
To help participants overcome these challenges, she introduced a strategic framework she referred to as the “three-room approach”: the Prayer Room, representing spiritual grounding; the Planning Room, emphasizing purpose and goal setting; and the Performance Room, which focuses on taking concrete actions. Beyond this, she urged the youth to develop a growth mindset, embrace daily disciplines like making their beds, seek out mentors and role models, and make use of technology for learning and productivity. She encouraged them to write down their aspirations, commit to action, avoid negative influences, and use affirmations to build confidence and resilience.
Dr. Ani also shared personal reflections and success stories to bring her points to life. She reminded the teens that fear often accompanies big dreams, and that this fear is not a sign to stop, but an indicator of growth. She challenged them to look beyond their immediate environments and to begin shaping themselves for global relevance, drawing inspiration from both local and international success stories. The session concluded with a rousing call to action, inviting each participant to take three key steps: know yourself, pursue excellence daily, and take action. Dr. Ani led the audience in a series of affirmations, such as “I am excellent,” “I am a global figure,” “I am relevant,” and “I belong to the top,” reinforcing a sense of self-worth and purpose in every participant.
Dr. Judith I. Ani’s presentation was not only informative but deeply inspirational. It offered practical strategies and emotional empowerment for young people determined to rise above their limitations. With her blend of spiritual insight, practical advice, and motivational storytelling, she succeeded in leaving a lasting impact, proving that with prayer, planning, and performance, excellence is within reach for every youth committed to achieving it.
Facilitators: Dr Judith Ani; Dr Victoria Okafor; Dr Romanus Osabohien; and Dr Esther Folarin
This session will feature the following:
Identifying the Right Fellowship or Award
Crafting a Competitive Application
Understanding the Selection Criteria
Leveraging Networking and Mentorship
Navigating the Application Timeline
Overcoming Challenges in the Application Process
Maximizing the Benefits of Fellowships and Awards
Case Studies and Success Stories
Dr. Judith Ani is a postdoctoral fellow at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa. She also serves as the Chief Operations Officer/Director of Research at Inspire World International Foundation, Abuja, Nigeria and leads Partnerships and Programmes at DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), Ota, Nigeria. With research interests in health, gerontology, gender, migration, food security and climate change, she has received awards for her impactful research, contributing to several funded projects, the most recent being the prestigious 2023 African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) Grant, funded by BMZ (German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development) and AvH (Alexander von Humboldt Foundation). Passionate about evidence-based research, she aims to address Africa’s social and health challenges for sustainable development.
Dr Victoria OkaforIs a development economist with experience in macroeconomic and microeconomics analysis. Her research entails addressing developmental challenges such as poverty and inequality in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. She is adept in using analytical tools like Stata and E-views to produce and explore data. She currently works as a consultant in the Poverty and Equity Global Practice of the World Bank, where she provides analytical and research support on poverty measurements in Nigeria and, at the same time, contribute to classifying urban and rural poverty numbers in Nigeria. She holds a lecturership position at Covenant University, Ota, where she had her Masters and Doctorate degrees. She is a 1st Class Economics graduate from Landmark University.
Dr. Romanus Osabohien is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute of Energy Policy and Research (IEPRe), Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Kajang, Malaysia. Also, he is the publications lead at DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), Nigeria. He is a consultant and reviewer for Global Environmental Outlook 7th Edition (GEO-7), the flagship report of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). Dr Osabohien has executed funded projects both individually and collaboratively. He is an author, reviewer and editorial board member for rated journals such as Elsevier (Heliyon) – Economics, where he serves as an Associate Editor.
Dr Esther Folarinis an assistant professor working as a research associate at Warwick University, UK, and a lecturer at CECOS College, London. She holds a Ph.D in Economics from Covenant University and a Masters in Monetary and Labour Economics from the University of Lagos. She is a professional Lecturer and a member of the National Economic Society (NES), the Canadian Economics Association (CEA) and the Royal Economic Society (RES). She has almost a decade of lecturing experience and commitment to research within international development, economics, and the Global South political economy.
Outcome
The Live Recorded Session on YouTube is embedded herein:
Topic: Proposal Writing, Practicality of Grant Winning and Implementation
Host: Professor Evans Osabuohien
Facilitator: Dr Judith Ani
Dr Judith Ani serves as the Chief Operations Officer/Director of Research at Inspire World International Foundations and heads Collaboration and Partnership at DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC). She is a Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. With research interests in health, gerontology, gender, migration, food security, and climate change, she has received awards for her impactful research, contributing to several funded projects. A recent one is the prestigious 2023 African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) Grant, funded by BMZ (German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development) and AvH (Alexander von Humboldt Foundation). Passionate about evidence-based research, she aims to address Africa’s social and health challenges for sustainable development.
In this episode, Dr Judith will be sharing practical insights on grant writing, winning, and implementation, drawing from her rich experience with winning several grants from top donor agencies globally, especially the recent MRI Grant courtesy of CODESRIA.
When you attend this episode, you will learn:
Concept note development.
Proposal writing
Pitch deck development.
Sourcing for funding and grant opportunities (where to look, how to search, and submit competitive applications)
Grant writing, amongst others…
Bonus learning opportunities include the chance to ask questions and get clarification on any concerns you have about the practicalities of grant writing. Additionally, participants will be able to complete assignments and get a certificate upon completion of the series to assess their level of learning.
To join this episode, you simply need to block your calendars for November 3, 2024. Registration closes on October 20, 2024. Register here. For more information, kindly contact us via email: info@diaderc.org and programs@diaderc.org.
Facilitators: Dr Patience Tunji-Olayeni & Dr Judith Ani
What’s in it for you?
In this episode, we will explore how strategic partnerships can help you grow in your career, business, and research. You’ll learn practical ways to build and maintain successful collaborations, develop trust, and align goals for mutual benefit. We’ll also discuss how partnerships can open doors to funding, resource sharing, and innovation, allowing you to expand your impact and create sustainable opportunities.
We’ll dive into real-life experiences and success stories, showing you how to overcome challenges, manage risks, and sustain long-term collaborations. Whether you’re a researcher, entrepreneur, or social impact leader, this session will equip you with the right tools to maximise the power of teamwork.
Bonus and Benefits
Practical strategies for building and sustaining successful collaborations.
Insights into leveraging partnerships for funding and resource-sharing opportunities.
Stronger networks and potential for future collaborations.
Meet the Facilitators
Dr Patience Tunji-Olayeni is a Quantity Surveyor and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Building Technology at Covenant University, Nigeria. She is also a Senior Associate Research Fellow at the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa and a Visiting Scholar at the Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences, Mulheim, Germany. Her research cuts across construction education, construction management, sustainable construction, construction 4.0 & 5.0 and gender in construction. She has authored over 100 peer reviewed articles in her area of research and an edited book of chapters. Patience is a recipient of the Chancellor of Covenant University Award for Exceptional Research in 2018 and the University of the Free State (UFS) Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship in 2019. She currently serves as the Coordinator, Grants, Scholarships, Awards and Fellowships (GSAF) at the Covenant University Centre for Research Innovation and Discovery (CUCRID), and a member of the DIaDeRC Advisory Board. She is the Chair of the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Ogun, a United Nations-Accredited Centre which serves as a learning hub for sustainable practices, and the Convener of Women Academics in Construction (WAiC), a capacity-building network for women academics and postgraduate students in the built environment. She is also the Covenant University Team Lead in the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Project between the Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences, Mulheim, Germany and Covenant University. Patience serves as a reviewer for several reputable international journals and also as a postgraduate supervisor and external examiner within and outside Nigeria. She has supervised 4 masters and 2 PhD students and has secured about €400,000 in research grants. Her vision is to transform the research landscape in Africa by raising a new generation of researchers in the built environment.
Dr Judith Ani holds a PhD from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Her career began in the financial sector before transitioning to work on a Ford Foundation-funded project focused on advocacy and capacity building for HIV/AIDS education in Nigeria. She has also served on a short-term consultancy in related research with some local and international organisations. During her undergraduate years, Dr. Ani volunteered at the LAPO Institute, where she later became the Research and Development Manager. She is a lecturer at the Institute, teaching subjects such as Sociology and Research Methods. Passionate about making a difference, she founded the Education and Research for Sustainable Development, supporting vulnerable individuals in urban and rural communities. Through this initiative, she has provided vital information and awareness on topics such as cancer, gender-based violence, and girl-child education. Dr Ani has received awards and fellowships from prestigious institutions, including CODESRIA’s MRI Grant and the African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) Grant.
Today, we at diaderc.centre are thrilled to spotlight a remarkable beacon of innovation and social impact in renewable energy research—Dr Judith Ifunanya Ani. She is an active DIaDeRC Team member serving as Programme and Partnership Lead.
Dr Judith holds a Doctorate from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and she is an embodiment of transformative change. Her expertise spans sociology, demography, and population studies, making her a disruptive thinker in our field. Her high energy and passion set her apart as a leader who believes in the power of knowledge and collaboration to drive sustainable development across Africa. Judith’s innovative approaches to harnessing solutions exemplifies what it means to be a resourceful leader—training teams, engaging stakeholders, and building partnerships that create pathways for success. Her work is not just about research; it’s about empowering people, which typifies DIaDeRC’s Motto of ‘Honing Knowledge for Transforming Lives’ As a passionate advocate for social impact, she is relentless in her pursuit of knowledge and shares her insights to uplift others. We continually inspired by her ability to solve complex problems and her commitment to fostering sustainable practices. We invite you to join us in celebrating Dr. Judith Ani’s contributions; with the recent ones including Serving As Facilitator for Epsiode 2 in ASMN 4.0 and leading DIaDeRC Quartet Team for CODESRIA’s MRI (Meaning-making Research Initiative). How do you see research impacting communities and societies? Your thoughts are invaluable to us! Let’s engage with Dr Ani’s vision and work together towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria marked a significant turning point in the nation’s history. Since the first confirmed case[1] in sub-Saharan Africa on February 27th, 2020, Nigeria experienced a steady increase in the number of reported cases as of then. However, when compared to other regions around the world, Africa, including Nigeria, was relatively spared from the worst effects of the pandemic. Understanding the dynamics of global health pandemics like COVID-19 requires contextual and retrospective explanations. In other words, what could have accounted for the relatively low number of cases in this region thought to be at a considerably higher risk that would have surpassed other countries where cases were reported? What were the social perspectives on the pandemic in Nigeria? This article delves into the social dynamics and retrospective factors that shaped Nigeria’s experience with COVID-19 and discusses vaccine uptake in Nigeria.
Adoption of Social Measures
Upon the emergence of the virus, the Nigerian government, beyond clinical interventions, swiftly implemented social and public health measures such as social distancing, wearing facemasks, avoiding public gatherings, no handshakes, and imposing lockdowns. These measures were widely embraced by the public, playing a crucial role in mitigating the impact on the fragile healthcare infrastructure. Moreover, the dissemination of information on COVID-19 was facilitated by community health workers who not only provided healthcare services but also shared vital preventive measures within rural and underserved communities that had no access to COVID-19-related information.
Demographic Factors
Looking back, Nigeria’s population structure likely played a significant role in containing the spread of the virus. Nigeria has a youthful population structure, with approximately 61.97% between 0-24 years[2]Where high case fatality was recorded, most deaths were among the elderly because this sub-population was more vulnerable to severe illnesses given their age and vulnerability. In Nigeria, older adults predominantly reside in rural areas rather than urban areas or institutional homes. Place of residence has implications for transmission. Generally, in Nigeria, institutional homes are rare and older adults prefer to live in their communities in the rural areas. The lower population density in these areas and the absence of enclosed spaces, such as malls, potentially contributed to limiting the transmission of the virus among this sub-population regardless of their heightened vulnerability.
Sociological Shifts
From a sociological point of view, the pandemic brought about substantial changes in social interactions, leading to a “social disruption” that altered societal norms and patterns of behaviour. Some latent functions[3](unintended consequences) of the pandemic in Nigeria were also implicit. As sociologists, we value social order, yet we recognize the potential for growth and change within crises. We see the latent function in every crisis and make meanings from it. One key preventive tip during the pandemic was “social distancing”. This simply meant that people avoided close contact with each other. People found innovative ways to stay connected despite physical distancing measures. As human connections were altered, new patterns emerged. The illusions of connections became real. People were distanced yet felt more connected. Online platforms enabled religious activities, classes, and live entertainment, fostering a sense of connection during a time of physical separation. Individualism, though not erased, was gradually replaced with empathy especially for victims of the dreaded virus as encouragement filtered through the air.
Greeting patterns underwent a transformation, giving rise to new cultural norms. Funeral rites experienced changes, and the bereaved were not allowed to bid their loved ones a proper farewell. Additionally, handshakes were actively discouraged. It became evident that no behavioural pattern was inherently sacrosanct, rather, they were relative. Patterns that once represented positive norms for collective consciousness underwent alterations due to anomalies. What was once a gesture of imposed trust turned into a symbol of distrust. In Nigeria, a handshake had long been regarded as a sign of camaraderie, but with the emergence of the deadly virus, it became a potential means of transmission. Offering a hand for a shake suddenly raised suspicion towards the individual. Prior to the pandemic, the situation was quite the opposite. If a handshake was declined, the person who declined it was seen as an antagonist. However, during the pandemic, the one extending a handshake was perceived as an adversary, suspected of being a carrier of the virus.
Belief Systems and Coping Mechanisms
People’s perception of the strategies to control the virus mirrored their belief systems, which were influenced by various factors such as developmental stages, economic status, and poverty levels. Drawing upon Karl Marx’s analogy, religion was seen as the opium of the masses, offering solace and meaning during times of crisis. Consequently, individuals turned to religion as a means to comprehend the pandemic—a reflection of society’s reliance on this opiate, as Marx once famously remarked.
During the pandemic, various beliefs emerged among people. Some drew parallels between the pandemic and the plagues of ancient Egypt during the enslavement of the Israelites. Others held the belief that the world was on the brink of an apocalyptic end, where life would cease to exist on earth. Additionally, some saw the pandemic as a divine punishment targeting Western monarchies, which were perceived as sources of corruption and indecency spread across the globe. In an attempt to absolve Nigeria from the pandemic’s impact, the hot climatic conditions were seen as a divine intervention—a panacea sent by God to protect them. It was believed that the virus could not survive in such hot climates like Nigeria, reinforcing the notion that the country was spared from its full effects.
Some individuals succumbed to non-medical advice, such as consuming salt, water, and vinegar, or relying on herbs and roots like ginger and garlic, and even resorting to hot baths in hopes of eliminating the virus.
These practices were viewed as myths and ineffective for health, often associated with a higher prevalence of poverty and non-rational beliefs. On the other hand, for some, religion and spirituality became adaptive mechanisms during these trying times. In essence, “spiritualizing” became a coping strategy in dealing with health challenges like the coronavirus.[4]
Vaccine Uptake
As the lockdowns were lifted, people resumed their daily activities. However, a significant number of individuals continued to disregard the preventive measures in place, raising concerns about trust in the reality of the virus itself. The administration of the COVID-19 vaccine presented a new challenge that the government is currently grappling with. Unfortunately, vaccine uptake remains low in Nigeria. As of 19 March 2023, only a total of 116,606,863 vaccine doses have been administered[5], which is quite low compared to a population of over 200 million people.
While Nigeria initially responded effectively to the pandemic, challenges have emerged concerning COVID-19 vaccine uptake. This raises important questions: What caused this shift? Why did the public seem to forget the severity of the situation so quickly? What is the root of the fear surrounding vaccination? The implications of low adherence to vaccination are concerning. Reports revealed that the government faces unprecedented levels of distrust, as exemplified by the mishandling of COVID-19 palliatives meant for the people, leading to unnecessary suffering and loss of life. In 2021, reports also revealed that over one million doses of COVID-19 vaccines expired and needed to be destroyed[6]. This raises important questions: Why did more than one million doses expire within the timeframe since the first vaccine arrived in Nigeria? What was the shelf life of these vaccines? When were they produced, and why did the government opt for vaccines with close expiration dates? Does this not represent a waste of resources?
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped Nigeria’s social fabric, highlighting both resilience and vulnerabilities within the society. By examining the retrospective and social perspectives of Nigeria’s experience, valuable lessons could be learned for future health crises. While the initial response was effective, the populace’s adherence to preventive measures dwindled over time, raising questions about the reasons behind this shift. Vaccine uptake has been low, and fear and distrust surrounding vaccination have played a significant role in hindering progress. Effective collaboration between the government, healthcare systems, and the public is crucial to navigating the challenges ahead and mitigating the impact of the pandemic on Nigeria’s population.
The Nigerian government must prioritize building trust among the population by acknowledging their hardships and implementing practical measures. Access to testing and vaccination should be increased, and mass enlightenment campaigns should employ local languages and influential figures. Additionally, vaccines must undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety. Simultaneously, citizens must recognize the importance of protecting their health and comply with preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus and prevent avoidable deaths. Ultimately, a united and concerted effort between the government, healthcare authorities, and the public is necessary to effectively combat the pandemic, increase vaccine uptake, and protect the well-being of the Nigerian population.
OpenEdition suggests that you cite this post as follows: Judith I. Ani (July 19, 2023). The COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria: A Retrospective Social Perspective and Vaccine Uptake. Threads of Time. Retrieved May 20, 2025 from https://timethreads.hypotheses.org/34
Herd immunity is critical in public health, especially for contagious diseases like Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer. HPV vaccination plays a crucial role in achieving herd immunity by reducing the prevalence of HPV infections within a population. By vaccinating a large proportion of the population, the spread of HPV is inhibited, thereby lowering the risk of transmission to unvaccinated individuals. This not only protects vaccinated individuals from HPV-related diseases like cervical cancer but also provides indirect protection to those who are not vaccinated, including those who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical reasons or socioeconomic factors. Consequently, herd immunity serves as a powerful tool in combating HPV and preventing the associated health complications, ultimately contributing to public health efforts in reducing the burden of cervical cancer. By getting vaccinated, you not only safeguard yourself but also help shield others who may be at risk. Let’s work together to create a healthier future for everyone!
