Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ishaq Salako, has commissioned a state-of-the-art laboratory in Yaba, Lagos, to boost the country’s capacity to diagnose and manage infectious diseases such as HIV, COVID-19, and Lassa fever.
The laboratory, located within the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) premises, is equipped with advanced Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology, enabling rapid and accurate molecular diagnostics on a large scale.
Speaking at the commissioning yesterday (Thursday), Dr. Salako described the facility as a “transformative leap” in the health sector, enhancing the country’s ability to respond to pandemics and mitigate health risks.
He emphasized that the laboratory underscores the government’s commitment to building a resilient healthcare system, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.
“By fostering synergy between research, diagnostics, and policy, we are taking proactive steps toward achieving our health goals,” Dr. Salako said.
The minister noted that the laboratory will serve as a cornerstone in the fight against HIV and other infectious diseases, providing critical support for diagnostics, epidemiological surveillance, and biomedical research.
Additionally, the facility will train the next generation of molecular scientists and researchers, ensuring they are equipped to tackle present and future health challenges.
According to Dr. Salako, the laboratory aligns with the broader national strategy for health security and is a key pillar of the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (HSRII).
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, urged the NIMR to maintain the lab and other facilities properly.
The Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Prof. John Obafunwa, reassured NIMR’s commitment to research and service, commending the Lagos State government for their collaboration in advancing health research in the state.
