The Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), in collaboration with the Board of Trustees of the Ladipo Mobolaji Abisogun-Afodu Annual Lecture in Pharmacy, has officially announced the opening of applications for the 6th Ladipo Mobolaji Abisogun-Afodu Research Grant Award Competition.
The 2025 research theme focuses on: “Research Trends in Mental Health/Neurodegenerative Disorder: Novel Prevention, Management and or Treatment Strategies.” This theme reflects growing global interest in mental health innovation and treatment. Researchers interested in health research funding, particularly in mental and neurological disorders, now have a valuable opportunity to receive financial support for their work.
The Board of Trustees has committed to awarding a maximum of ₦2,500,000 (Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) to successful applicants. This funding is strictly meant for use in active research and cannot be used for personal or unrelated purposes.
According to the official statement, “The fund is designed for the exclusive use of the applicant’s research.” The Trustees stress that the primary work must be conducted by the applicant, though non-essential aspects may involve third parties. This focus on personal responsibility encourages applicants to maintain full control of their scientific direction.
Applicants must be currently working in a university, research institution, or other recognised organisation in Nigeria. Researchers who are still under supervision must provide an endorsement from their supervisor as part of the application. Importantly, the fund is not available to research students or anyone currently enrolled in a full-time research programme.
The grant may cover equipment, medical supplies, services, and other related expenses directly connected to the approved research project. However, restrictions apply. The grant cannot be used for personal expenses, hiring assistants, or purchasing books or journal subscriptions, unless specifically approved to advance the research.
Where international exposure is necessary, up to ₦200,000 may be used to pay for publication in international journals, while local journal publication costs are capped at ₦50,000. In rare cases, travel costs may be approved, but they must be clearly explained in the application budget.
Every applicant must submit the names and contact information of two referees. At least one of them must work in a different institution. These referees are expected to assess the quality and relevance of the research proposal. Where applicable, supervisors must also sign the application form.
A crucial part of this health grant process is accountability. Each grant recipient must submit a progress report six months after receiving the award. This report must include:
- A summary of conclusions
- Description of the work done
- Techniques used
- Results obtained
- Evaluation of the project’s success
- Future development plans
All recipients must also use a portion of their budget to organise a public awareness programme, highlighting how the research findings benefit society. This ensures the research has real-world impact beyond academic circles.
Any paper or publication that results from this research grant must acknowledge the support of the Ladipo Mobolaji Abisogun-Afodu Research Grant. Recipients are required to submit one copy of any such publication along with the final report.
Grants are not usually given to the same applicant for more than two consecutive years, and the Trustees reserve the right to modify the grant size based on available funds. They may also decline to award any grants in a given year if no suitable applications are received.
All decisions by the Trustees are final and applications cannot be reconsidered in the same cycle once submitted.
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How to Apply
The closing date for all applications is Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Interested applicants must send their completed application form and required documents to advancement@unilag.edu.ng and dean-pharmacy@unilag.edu.ng.
Download the application form here: Application Form Link
This opportunity is ideal for early-career and experienced researchers looking for pharmacy research funding in Nigeria, especially those exploring innovative solutions for mental health care, neurodegenerative disease management, or treatment innovations.