The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has commenced the distribution of modern automated medical laboratory equipment to selected Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the state under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity Primary Health Care (HOPE-PHC) Project.
Eko Hot News reports that the initiative, funded by the Lagos State Government with support from the World Bank-backed HOPE-PHC programme, is aimed at strengthening diagnostic services and improving healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
The distribution exercise, which commenced on June 22, 2026, marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to improve laboratory capacity and enhance access to quality healthcare services for residents.
Speaking during the exercise, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, described the intervention as a strategic investment in the future of primary healthcare in Lagos State.
According to him, the project is designed to improve healthcare accessibility, strengthen health system resilience, and ensure better health outcomes for communities across the state.
Dr. Mustafa noted that quality healthcare begins with accurate and timely diagnosis, stressing that modern laboratory equipment plays a critical role in supporting effective patient care and treatment decisions.
He explained that the deployment of the equipment demonstrates the Lagos State Government’s commitment to providing efficient, reliable, and patient-focused healthcare services in line with its universal health coverage goals.
The Permanent Secretary revealed that the equipment package includes advanced diagnostic tools capable of improving laboratory efficiency and reducing delays in obtaining test results.
Among the equipment being distributed are Haematology Analysers, which will support full blood count and differential testing in PHC facilities.
The facilities will also receive ISE Electrolyte Analysers for the assessment of sodium, potassium, and chloride levels, helping healthcare professionals make accurate clinical decisions.
Other equipment includes Electrophoresis Machines used for protein and haemoglobin electrophoresis, an essential diagnostic process for several health conditions.
Olympus Microscopes are also part of the distribution package, providing improved support for microscopy and confirmatory investigations in primary healthcare centres.
Additionally, Semi-Automated Chemistry Analysers will be deployed to assist with liver function tests, renal function assessments, lipid profile analysis, and other important biochemical investigations.
Dr. Mustafa emphasized that the HOPE-PHC Project goes beyond equipment distribution and includes broader investments aimed at transforming primary healthcare services throughout Lagos State.
He disclosed that the programme also supports the renovation of PHC facilities and the recruitment of additional healthcare workers to improve service delivery across communities.
According to him, these interventions are designed to create a more responsive and efficient primary healthcare system capable of meeting the growing healthcare needs of Lagos residents.
The Permanent Secretary stated that sustainability remains a major priority for the Board, adding that measures have been put in place to ensure the proper utilization and maintenance of the equipment.
He explained that beneficiary facilities would receive technical support, while healthcare personnel would undergo specialized training to maximize the performance and lifespan of the equipment.
The training programme will cover equipment operation, quality assurance procedures, preventive maintenance, and laboratory best practices.
Dr. Mustafa stressed that the success of the intervention depends on the commitment of beneficiary facilities to provide suitable laboratory environments and qualified personnel for effective management of the equipment.
He urged facility managers and laboratory staff to ensure the assets are properly maintained and utilized for the benefit of patients and communities.
According to him, the goal is not only to provide modern equipment but also to improve healthcare outcomes through enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
The Permanent Secretary commended Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his sustained commitment to strengthening the healthcare sector through strategic investments and innovative health programmes.
He noted that the governor’s support has contributed significantly to ongoing efforts aimed at improving primary healthcare services and expanding access to quality medical care.
Dr. Mustafa reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to delivering accessible, efficient, and high-quality healthcare services in line with the THEMES+ Development Agenda of the Lagos State Government.
The HOPE-PHC Project continues to serve as one of the flagship healthcare initiatives focused on transforming healthcare delivery at the community level.
Healthcare experts have consistently identified improved diagnostic services as a key factor in strengthening healthcare systems and achieving better patient outcomes.
The deployment of modern laboratory equipment is expected to reduce diagnostic errors, improve treatment decisions, and increase confidence in primary healthcare facilities.
Residents are also expected to benefit from quicker access to essential laboratory services without the need for referrals to distant healthcare centres.
The initiative aligns with global best practices that prioritize strong primary healthcare systems as the foundation of sustainable healthcare delivery.
As implementation progresses, Lagos State aims to further strengthen its healthcare infrastructure and ensure that quality diagnostic services are available across all communities.
The latest intervention reinforces the state government’s vision of building a healthier population through investments in technology, healthcare infrastructure, and human capital development.
