Abuja: The Federal Government has urged 464 newly inducted foreign-trained Medical Laboratory Science graduates to maintain professionalism, integrity, and precision while combating malpractice and quackery within the country’s healthcare system. Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, delivered this message during the 12th Induction and Oath-Taking Ceremony of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Salako emphasized the importance of this ceremony as a demonstration of a collective commitment to strengthening institutions, empowering professionals, and advancing a people-centered health system anchored on quality, trust, and accountability. He highlighted the critical role that medical laboratory scientists play in diagnosis, treatment decisions, and public health management, and commended the council for upholding regulatory standards, promoting continuous professional development, and combating quackery.
The minister further stated that the ministry relies on laboratory professionals to deliver accurate and timely results, supporting early disease detection and effective public health responses. He underscored that laboratory competence boosts investor confidence, supports local production, and reduces dependence on imported medical products. Dr. Salako also praised the MLSCN as a strategic partner in achieving national health goals, protecting Nigerians from diagnostic errors, and upholding global best practices.
Dr. Salako lauded the council for reconstructing and commissioning the Golden Arena, describing it as an example of innovation, foresight, and responsible stewardship, demonstrating a commitment to self-reliance and cost efficiency. He noted that the council’s adaptation program ensures that foreign-trained graduates align their international training with Nigeria’s health needs, disease patterns, and laboratory standards. He reminded the inductees of the sacred responsibility entrusted to them by patients and clinicians.
Acting Registrar of MLSCN, Dr. Donald Ofili, reiterated the council’s commitment to excellence, asserting that the induction reflects the essential role laboratory scientists play in healthcare delivery. He expressed confidence in the graduates’ international training and the 12-month adaptation program, which have prepared them to contribute meaningfully to the health sector. Ofili emphasized that the reconstructed Golden Arena symbolizes the council’s dedication to creating a conducive environment for professional growth.
Ofili highlighted the graduates as custodians of diagnostic truth who guide clinical judgment, inform public health strategy, and influence treatment outcomes. He warned that the council would continue enforcing discipline, eradicating quackery, and ensuring globally competitive laboratory services. He reminded the inductees that their oath binds them to ethical practice, respect for human dignity, and professional accountability, aligning with the President’s Five-Point Agenda for healthcare improvement.
One of the graduates, Mr. Hassan Bilkisu, pledged on behalf of his colleagues to uphold accuracy in laboratory results and urged Nigerians to patronize accredited laboratories for reliable services. Another inductee, Ms. Okoro Chidimma, promised to ensure that laboratory services remain reliable, competitive, and focused on delivering accurate outcomes.