FG Urged to Invest in Smart Diagnostics for Health Security

The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) commenced its 19th Annual Public Health Lecture and national executive council (NEC) meeting in Enugu, advocating for the Federal Government to prioritize investment in smart diagnostics, disease surveillance, and laboratory infrastructure. The meeting's theme was “Smart Diagnostics: The Role of Medical Laboratory Scientists in National Security and Universal Health Coverage.” Participants stressed that a robust medical laboratory system is essential for achieving national security and universal health coverage.

Professor Nkereuwem Etukudoh, the Chairman of the occasion and Provost of the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, highlighted the importance of diagnostics as a strategic national asset. He called for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assent to the bill establishing the Federal University of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Jos, which aims to enhance specialized medical laboratory education and research.

Dr. Donald Ofili, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), also presented a reform agenda to strengthen the sector.