In a significant boost to Nigeria’s healthcare sector, Cerba Lancet Nigeria has inaugurated its state-of-the-art reference laboratory in Lagos, setting new standards in medical testing and preventive care.
With a focus on early detection and cutting-edge diagnostics, Cerba Lancet Nigeria is poised to reshape the healthcare landscape, offering hope for a system heavily reliant on personal funds and the growing burden of chronic diseases.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, at the Cerba Lancet Nigeria grand opening and new name unveiling in Lagos, praised the facility for its potential to transform healthcare delivery. “Testing before treatment is crucial. Using laboratories to define treatment strategies ensures we avoid the misuse of antimicrobials and reduce the burden of preventable diseases,” Abayomi stated.
He called on Cerba Lancet to expand its local testing capacity to reduce reliance on foreign laboratories, ensuring quicker and more cost-effective diagnostics. “Building local capacity is key to improving healthcare outcomes and addressing the challenges of out-of-pocket spending,” he added.
The minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, also commended the initiative, describing it as a “game-changer” for Nigerians. He urged Cerba Lancet Nigeria to partner with universities to enhance medical research and training.
CEO of Cerba Lancet Nigeria, Dr. Olayemi Dawodu, emphasised the company’s commitment to preventive healthcare, particularly in early detection of conditions like hypertension and diabetes. “Preventive care not only improves health outcomes but also alleviates the financial strain on individuals and the healthcare system,” Dawodu noted.
Cerba Lancet’s CEO further outlined partnerships with Health Management Organizations (HMOs) and local communities to make diagnostics accessible and affordable, reinforcing the company’s mission to extend the average Nigerian lifespan.
Operating in 14 African countries, Cerba Lancet Africa’s ambition is to decentralize diagnostics and deliver world-class services locally. Group CEO Matthieu Gogue reiterated this commitment, stating, “Our investment in technology and skilled professionals ensures we meet the healthcare needs of every Nigerian.”