Challenges to Obtaining Informed Consent for Research Participation in Nigeria: A Review of Literature

Background: Informed consent has its roots in the 1947 Nuremberg Code and 1964 Declaration of Helsinki. This review determined the challenges to obtaining informed consent for research participation in Nigeria. Methodology: A review of literature was conducted using the following search engines: Google, PubMed, Google Scholar, Infolep, WHO website, Web of Science, African Journal Online, Biomed Central, and BASE Search. Ninety-four articles were retrieved and 44 articles were included in the review. The searches were done between February and March 2022 and included all articles written in English that focused on the informed consent process in Nigeria and globally. Findings: Participants in research in developing countries are most times not informed and do not question the terms of their participation. They are often vulnerable due to lack of familiarity with medical interventions or the urgent need for healthcare and nutrition. In developed countries, informed consent for medical research has become innovative but this is not the case in developing countries. Some research participants are unaware that they are taking part in research. Conclusion: There is the need to build capacity of researchers to understand issues related to research so they can be able to fully explain to research participants their rights. Developing culturally appropriate methods for sharing information about the research project and obtaining informed consent is essential. Effective communication between the researchers and participants during the informed consent process can build trust and enhance self-decision. Vulnerable populations should be adequately protected during their participation in research.