Health expert Dr. Jay Osi Samuels has reported substantial advancements in controlling the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic in Nigeria. With nearly two million individuals now receiving treatment, the nation has reached a significant milestone in closing the gap regarding HIV control.
Dr. Osi-Samuels, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Programmes) of the APIN Public Health Initiative, made this announcement during an event at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC).
Recognizing Excellence in Testing
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) certificate to the OAUTHC Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) laboratory. This recognition underscores the laboratory’s efficiency and accuracy in HIV testing.
Dr. Osi-Samuels praised the impactful role of the HIV project in Nigeria, revealing that nearly two million individuals are currently under HIV treatment. With Nigeria’s HIV prevalence estimated at two million, it signifies significant progress in reaching the goal known as “closing the gap.”
Raising the Bar: OAUTHC’s Commitment to Excellence
The achievement of SANAS accreditation is a testament to OAUTHC’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards. Dr. Osi-Samuels encouraged the hospital to uphold these rigorous standards to ensure ongoing success in the fight against HIV.
A Pledge to Provide Top-Quality Healthcare
Prof. John Akintunde Okeniyi, Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, received the certificate on behalf of the hospital. He affirmed the management’s dedication to delivering tertiary healthcare services to Nigerians and pledged to do even more in the future.
Raising the Global Bar
Prof. Ebunoluwa Aderonke Adejuyigbe, a professor of pediatrics at the hospital, emphasized the global significance of the accreditation. She revealed that OAUTHC’s PCR laboratory serves as a regional testing hub for multiple facilities in Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Oyo states, and sometimes extends its services as far as Benue State and the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in Lagos.
Through the support of the Center for Disease Control, facilitated by APIN, the facility has been equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and personnel training. Notably, the facility now boasts a COBAS analyzer (C4800) for conducting HIV viral load and Early Infant Diagnosis tests for all enrolled patients.
The accreditation of OAUTHC’s PCR lab raises the bar for healthcare testing standards not only within Nigeria but also on the global stage. The commitment to excellence in HIV control and testing will undoubtedly contribute to further progress in the battle against this persistent health challenge.
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