Nigeria is rapidly developing as a center for biomedical research, creating a growing need for more trained bioethicists to provide ethical oversight. At present, only two graduate-level programs in health research ethics exist nationwide, and both are located in the southern region, leaving the northern region without comparable training opportunities. As the country’s genetics research capacity expands, it is increasingly important to enhance health research ethics expertise among researchers throughout Nigeria. To guide the development of a Master of Science program in Health Research Ethics for northern Nigeria, we carried out a needs assessment based on semi-structured interviews with nine experts in Nigerian bioethics. Interview transcripts were examined using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Two members of the research team independently reviewed and coded each transcript, identifying key themes that captured the perspectives of each participant. These primary themes were then further organized into related subthemes. The analysis revealed four central themes supported by ten subthemes. Participants expressed that such a program would address an existing gap and build national capacity in health research ethics. They highlighted the importance of designing an interdisciplinary, context-specific curriculum that trains students to critically analyze ethical challenges. Respondents also underscored the need to select faculty and students from the local environment who are able to commit adequate time and effort to the program. Lastly, they emphasized that long-term viability will depend on strong institutional backing from the host university. Our results will inform the development of a master’s program designed to strengthen health research ethics capacity in northern Nigeria and support the nation’s expanding role in global biomedical research. The needs assessment highlighted key structural considerations and curricular elements that can help us draw on the expertise of local institutions and bioethics leaders, while also addressing potential obstacles to launching and sustaining the program.
