Health Research Ethics (HREC)

Registered NHREC Category B Committee — NHREC/29/03/2017

Upholding participant dignity, promoting scientific rigor, and leading ethical research oversight.

WHO WE ARE

Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital’s Health Research Ethics Committee (HREC) is a Category B committee registered with the National Health Research Ethics Committee of Nigeria (NHREC). Registered under NHREC/29/03/2017 (effective April 13, 2017), we are constituted and operate in full compliance with the National Code of Health Research Ethics and NHREC written procedures.

Our review processes are guided by NHREC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and international best practices, ensuring transparency, accountability, and robust protection for research participants. Internationally, our HREC is recognized as a registered Institutional
Review Board (IRB) by the United States Department of Health and Human
Services (DHHS), Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP).

NHREC Reg. No: NHREC/29/03/2017
Federal Wide Assurance (FWA): FWA00018893
IRB Number: IRB00007035 | IORG: IORG0005833

VISION

To be a recognized leader in ethical research review, upholding international standards, honoring community and cultural perspectives, and setting the benchmark for ethically-compliant research, especially in infectious diseases and emerging pathogens.

MISSION

To protect research participants through rigorous, fair, and timely review; uphold global ethical standards with cultural sensitivity; promote transparency, accountability, and scientific rigor; build local
capacity for ethical conduct; and lead in responsible oversight of all research, including emerging
pathogens.

CORE VALUE

Our work is anchored on respect and dignity for all participants, guided by the highest standards
of integrity and accountability, and committed to justice and equity in every decision. We embrace cultural sensitivity and community engagement as central to ethical review, while pursuing excellence and continuous improvement in all that we do.

CONTACT US

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Submission Requirements for Ethical Approval

Guidance for submitting an application to ISTH Health Research Ethics Committee:

Clinical Trials
Initial review
Extension of Approval
Change of research title
Continuing review — Pictorial guidelines available for this

Policies and Guidance

Protocol Templates & Forms
Informed consent form(ICF)
SOPs
Recruitment Materials & Worksheets

OUR UNITS

To effectively carry out its mandate, the Health Research Ethics Committee (HREC) is
structured into specialized units. Each unit plays a vital role in ensuring that research
oversight is thorough, ethical, and aligned with national and international standards.

Quality Improvement Unit

Responsible for monitoring and enhancing the committee’s processes, ensuring continuous
compliance with ethical standards and best practices.

Education and Training Unit

Dedicated to building capacity through workshops, seminars, and training programs that equip researchers, committee members, and stakeholders with the knowledge and skills required for ethical research conduct.

Review Unit

Oversees the review of research protocols, ensuring that studies meet established ethical
guidelines, safeguard participants’ rights, and uphold scientific integrity.