Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa has challenged the medical laboratory scientists in Nigeria to spearhead groundbreaking research and vaccine production as part of efforts to transform the nation’s public health sector.

Mr Idahosa made the call in Benin on Tuesday when he received the Edo chapter of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) on a courtesy visit.

The deputy governor stated that it was disturbing that Nigeria still lacked a vaccine manufacturing company, despite its pressing health challenges.

“As we speak, we still do not have a vaccine manufacturing company or industry in the whole of Nigeria. That, to me, is worrisome.

“This is the heartbeat of the nation. I think we should roll up our sleeves and do what other states in this country have not done before. Let Edo be the beginner,” Mr Idahosa said.

He linked his call to the governor’s SHINE (Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Education) agenda, stressing that health remained a top priority.

The deputy governor, however, commended medical laboratory scientists for their critical role in disease detection and public health interventions, noting that their contributions had strengthened the state’s health system.

The former lawmaker also promised to work with stakeholders to address challenges confronting laboratory practice.

“We will work closely with the think tanks in the health sector to proffer solutions to your needs,” he said.

Earlier, the state chairman of AMLSN, Ekhaguere Ehigie, called for investment in advanced molecular laboratories and nanotechnology to enhance disease diagnosis, surveillance, and the accuracy of laboratory results.

“The establishment of modern laboratories and the adoption of nanotechnology are vital if we must improve public health outcomes in Nigeria,” Mr Ehigie said.

(NAN)