The Nigerian Government has admitted indicating interest to be part of the global solidarity trial of vaccines being tried to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

This was disclosed by the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, at the daily briefing of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 in Abuja on Monday.

WHO’s representative in Nigeria and member of the PTF on COVID-19, Dr. Fiona Braka, had last week said Nigeria had signed up for drug trial.

The Minister of Health said, “We have indicated interest to the WHO to be part of the global solidarity trial of medicines being tried to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, and efforts on to also conduct research here in Nigeria. Other drugs can be added to the trials based on emerging evidence.

“In all this, we shall ensure the maintenance of ethical standards and safety of our people.”

WHO had earlier revealed medicinal plant being considered for treatment of COVID-19.

It also revealed that medical plants like Artemisia Annua are being considered in the treatment of COVID-19.