The Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) has presented ISO 15189:2022 Accreditation Certificates to 11 medical laboratory facilities across the country, marking a major milestone in strengthening reliable diagnostic services.
Acting Registrar of MLSCN, Dr. Donald Ofili, described the achievement as a “defining moment” for quality medical laboratory services in Nigeria. He explained that the accredited laboratories comprising two private, two military, five public, and two research facilities met stringent international standards for competence, impartiality, and consistent operations.
Ofili noted that the accreditation enhances patient safety, supports accurate clinical decision-making, strengthens disease surveillance, and improves Nigeria’s competitiveness in global health services. He stressed that accreditation is a continuous process requiring internal audits, risk-based thinking, staff competency development, and strict adherence to documented procedures.
Prof. Joy Shuaibu, Country Director of Sightsavers Nigeria, highlighted the organisation’s role in supporting facilities such as the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Lagos, and Osun State University’s Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory, Osogbo, under the BLON Project (2022–2025). She added that other laboratories, including Carter Centre Laboratory in Jos and ACENTDFB at ABU Zaria, are still undergoing certification.
Prof. Odunayo Adebooye, Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, said the accreditation assures patients of reliable diagnostics, stressing that “if the diagnosis is wrong, everything else will be wrong.”
Rear Adm. Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, represented by Dr. Ann Ossai, said the certification of Nigerian Navy Reference Hospitals in Ojo and Calabar affirms the Navy’s commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, represented by Dr. Abubakar Ahmadu, welcomed the accreditation of three FCT district hospitals, Wuse, Asokoro, and Maitama, as proof of the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare quality.
By Palma Ileye, Abuja
