Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, has issued a bold call to action for Nigeria’s medical laboratory scientists, urging them to take the lead in groundbreaking research and vaccine production to address the country’s pressing health challenges.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Edo Chapter of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) in Benin City on Tuesday.
Expressing concern over the absence of a vaccine manufacturing facility in Nigeria, Idahosa described the situation as alarming and called for immediate innovation.
“It’s troubling that Nigeria, with its vast talent and urgent health needs, still lacks a vaccine production industry,” he said.
“Let Edo State be the trailblazer. We must do what others haven’t dared to attempt.” he added.
The deputy governor linked his remarks to the SHINE Agenda—Governor Monday Okpebholo’s strategic blueprint focusing on Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Agriculture, and Education. He emphasized that health remains a top priority under the administration’s development goals.
Idahosa commended medical laboratory scientists for their pivotal role in disease detection, diagnostics, and public health interventions.
He acknowledged their contributions to strengthening Edo’s healthcare system and pledged to work collaboratively with stakeholders to address challenges facing the profession.
“We will engage with experts and policy thinkers in the health sector to find lasting solutions,” he assured. “After security, health is our next major focus, and Edo will be proud of the transformation we’re driving.”
During the visit, AMLSN State Chairman Dr. Ekhaguere Ehigie congratulated the government on its recent electoral success and highlighted critical issues affecting laboratory practice.
He advocated for investment in advanced molecular labs and the integration of nanotechnology to enhance disease surveillance and diagnostic accuracy.
“The future of public health depends on our ability to innovate,” Ehigie said. “Modern laboratories and cutting-edge technologies are essential if we want to improve outcomes and build a resilient health system.”
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration between the government and medical scientists, with both parties agreeing to champion reforms that will elevate Edo’s health infrastructure and position the state as a leader in medical innovation.
