Benin City — The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Engr. Godwins Omobayo, has challenged medical laboratory scientists to step up research in vaccine production to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign supply. Speaking during a professional event in Benin City, Omobayo stressed that recent global health crises revealed the dangers of depending heavily on imports.
He emphasized that Edo State is prepared to support initiatives that promote local innovation in healthcare, including laboratory science, clinical research, and biotechnology. According to him, investing in research and development will help Nigeria respond better to outbreaks and achieve greater health security.
The Deputy Governor also urged universities, teaching hospitals, and private sector partners to collaborate more closely with the government in areas of vaccine development, diagnostics, and pharmaceutical production.
Laboratory scientists welcomed the call, noting that Nigeria already has talented professionals but requires more funding and policy support to reach global standards.
