CCTRIS December 2025 Newsletter
Trials & Triumph: Clinical Research Chronicles
Director's Address
As we come to the close of 2025, I would like to pause and express my sincere appreciation to everyone who has contributed to the work and growth of the Centre for Clinical Trials, Research and Implementation Science (CCTRIS) this year.
My deepest gratitude goes to our sponsors and funders, whose continued trust and support have made it possible for us to pursue rigorous, relevant, and people-centered research. To our partners and collaborators, both within Nigeria and internationally, thank you for your shared vision, collaboration, and commitment to strengthening health systems through evidence.
I also acknowledge our co-investigators, site investigators, and regulatory partners, whose leadership and oversight ensure that our research meets the highest ethical and scientific standards. Your role remains central to the credibility and impact of our work.
To our site nurses, field teams, study coordinators, and site staff, thank you for the dedication, professionalism, and care you bring to every aspect of trial implementation. Much of your work happens quietly behind the scenes, yet it is fundamental to the success of our studies.
I am equally grateful to the CCTRIS staff and fellows, whose resilience, innovation, and teamwork continue to drive the Centre forward. Your commitment reflects what is possible when African-led research is nurtured, supported, and allowed to thrive.
Most importantly, I extend my appreciation to our research participants and communities. Your trust and willingness to participate in research are at the heart of everything we do. We remain committed to ensuring that the evidence generated translates into better care, stronger systems, and improved health outcomes.
As we reflect on 2025, I am proud of how far we have come and optimistic about what lies ahead. Together, we are shaping a future where research informs policy, strengthens practice, and improves lives.
Thank you for making 2025 a truly memorable year for CCTRIS.
Director, Centre for Clinical Trials, Research and Implementation Science (CCTRIS)
2025 at a Glance: A Year of Growth and Impact
Following the Director's address, we reflect briefly on the collective milestones that shaped CCTRIS in 2025.
This year, the Centre continued to strengthen its role as a hub for clinical trials, implementation science, and health systems research, advancing projects that address critical maternal and newborn health priorities while expanding into new areas of inquiry.
Advancing Research and Clinical Trials
Throughout the year, CCTRIS supported and implemented multi-site clinical trials and implementation studies, generating high-quality, locally relevant evidence. Key projects progressed through critical milestones, including trial close-outs, dissemination meetings, and policy-focused engagements that ensured findings reached decision-makers and practitioners.
Capacity Building and Learning
Capacity strengthening remained a core pillar of our work. In 2025, CCTRIS hosted academic seminars, journal clubs, internships, and training opportunities that supported students, early-career researchers, clinicians, and data professionals. These platforms fostered mentorship, interdisciplinary exchange, and skills development across the research ecosystem.
Partnerships and Global Engagement
The year was marked by strengthened collaborations at national, regional, and global levels. CCTRIS participated in major scientific conferences and hosted visiting collaborators, reinforcing South–South and North–South partnerships that support ethical, inclusive, and impactful research.
A major highlight was the commissioning of the Kensington Adebukola Adebutu Research Centre (KAARC), which symbolised a significant investment in infrastructure dedicated to advancing research excellence.
Strengthening Systems
Behind the scenes, the Centre continued to invest in laboratory services, data management, operational systems, and staff support structures, ensuring that growth is sustainable and aligned with global standards.
December at CCTRIS: Reflection, Renewal, and Celebration
CCTRIS End-of-Year Retreat - 17 December 2025
As part of our commitment to reflection and strategic alignment, CCTRIS held its annual retreat on 17 December 2025. The retreat provided an opportunity for teams across projects and departments to review progress, share lessons learned, and align priorities for the year ahead.
Sessions included project reflections, discussions on the Centre's evolving research strategy, wellness and team-building activities, and open conversations on strengthening collaboration across units. The retreat reaffirmed our shared purpose and ensured that lessons from 2025 inform our approach as we move forward together.
End-of-Year Party and Awards - 19 December 2025
To close the year, CCTRIS hosted its End-of-Year Party on 19 December 2025, a joyful celebration of people, teamwork, and shared achievements.
The event was filled with laughter, games, gratitude, and moments of connection beyond the workplace. A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of Awards of Excellence to staff members whose dedication, professionalism, and outstanding contributions stood out during the year.
It was a fitting way to end 2025, celebrating not just outcomes, but the people who make the work possible.
Looking Ahead
As we step into a new year, CCTRIS remains committed to finding better, more effective ways to serve our partners, communities, and the science that drives improved health outcomes.
While we are not saying everything just yet, 2026 will build on the strong foundations laid this year, with new opportunities for collaboration, learning, and impact.
Did You Know?
CCTRIS now has a WhatsApp Channel where you can receive first-hand updates on our research activities, events, opportunities, and announcements directly from the Centre.
Join us as we reflect on 2025 and look ahead to what's coming next: