The Enugu state government says it is partnering with Godfrey Okoye University and other private institutions to establish a Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) centre in the state.

Prof. Emmanuel Obi, the state commissioner for health, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the state executive council meeting held at the Enugu Government House on Friday.

He said the council approved that the Enugu government would partner with private institutions to advance technology and biomolecular tests.

According to him, the state agreed to partner with Godfrey Okoye University Centre for DNA forensics, criminal investigation and education.

The commissioner revealed that the partnership was targeted at improving advanced diagnostics, criminal investigations, research and learning beyond what had been available before.

He said, “That facility is the type that will provide these advanced DNA analysis and investigations, which were not readily available in the country and even within West Africa.

“The tendency that we found before was that when DNA analysis is sorted out, samples are taken in Nigeria and shipped abroad, and the nearest facility is in South Africa.

“Enugu State Government is now promoting that this institute should exist in Enugu and be able to carry out investigations that will help to solve a lot of medical problems and enhance criminal investigation

“It will also help people to have solutions like paternity and maternity issues,” he stressed.

Mr Obi added that the establishment of the DNA facilities would touch many sectors in Enugu state, make the technology available to other nearby countries in West Africa, and improve education.

“With this, biotechnology will be exposed to students in Enugu,” he assured.

(NAN)