The Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) recently hosted a high-level delegation from the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), led by Dr. Agi Josephine Peace, to mark the commencement of a groundbreaking project. The initiative, supported by the Global Fund, aims to establish a zonal reference laboratory at JUTH, enhancing diagnostic capabilities for infectious diseases across Nigeria’s North Central region.
The visiting team comprised representatives from NACA, the Federal Ministry of Health/National AIDS and Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NASCP), the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme – Programme Management Unit (NTBLCP PMU), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), BISFUN, and Lavita Nigeria Limited. They were warmly received by JUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Pokop Bupwatda, alongside members of the hospital’s management team and key stakeholders.
This strategic project, set to conclude by December 2025, underscores the importance of collaboration in public health. Dr. Bupwatda reiterated JUTH’s commitment to the project, emphasizing the need for teamwork and timely delivery. The laboratory will serve as a critical resource for disease detection and management in the region.
A key highlight of the visit was the formal signing of the project agreement, marking the official start of work. The delegation also conducted a guided tour of the proposed laboratory site, assessing its readiness for transformation.
This successful visit solidified the partnership between stakeholders, paving the way for the timely delivery of a state-of-the-art zonal reference laboratory. The laboratory will significantly enhance disease detection and management in the North Central zone, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes.
GALLERY
