The Federal Government is planning to expand the Nigerian Institute of Science and Laboratory Technology (NISLT) across all six geo-political zones of the country to strengthen standards and improve professional knowledge in laboratory practices nationwide.
Mrs Esuabana Nko Asanye, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, disclosed this during a visit to the Institute’s complex in Abuja.
According to her, the expansion move is aimed at enabling the Institute to fully deliver on its mandate of advancing professional knowledge and safeguarding ethical standards in Nigeria’s science laboratory sector.
“The Institute must be strengthened to meet its mandate. Establishing it in all six geo-political zones will help advance professional knowledge and improve laboratory practices across the country,” Asanye says.
She also emphasises collaboration as a key enabler of the planned expansion, urging NISLT to partner with the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, other sister agencies, and stakeholders to rehabilitate and restructure its facilities for optimal use.
Dr Peter Oluwafisoye, Acting Director-General of NISLT, highlights the agency’s core duties, which include advancing the professional efficiency and interests of science laboratory personnel in health and other fields, as well as conducting research across areas of laboratory technology.
He laments the poor state of the Institute’s infrastructure, which he says has hindered its operations.
“The Institute is expected to be an enviable institution in the country, but due to dilapidated infrastructure and lack of equipment, it is handicapped in carrying out its functions effectively,” Dr Oluwafisoye adds.
While welcoming the Federal Government’s renewed focus, he calls for more public and private sector support to drive a total transformation of the Institute.
During the visit, the Permanent Secretary also commends Mr Omorilewa Ayotunde, President of the Laboratory Association of Nigeria, for what she describes as his “ideas, encouragement and support” towards strengthening the NISLT.
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