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Abstract Africa, with 18.3% of the world’s population, faces a significant research output gap, contributing only 2% of global research despite bearing a substantial disease burden. This discrepancy is partly due to inadequate research infrastructure, limited funding, and a shortage of physician-scientists. These challenges exacerbate the continent’s reliance on research findings from high-income countries, which often does not align with Africa’s unique health issues. Establishing student research hubs in medical schools is a promising strategy to addressing this issue. Such hubs can cultivate a research-oriented mindset and enhance problem-solving skills among future medical professionals. This paper examines the operational model of the College Research and Innovation Hub (CRIH) at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Founded in 2019, CRIH has been successful in promoting research among medical students through structured programs and mentorship. The paper provides insights into CRIH’s strategies and impact, offering a framework for replicating this model in Nigeria to improve research output and address local health challenges.