By Mercy Gadia
The Federal Government has approved the appointment of Dr Donald Ibe Ofili as the substantive Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria following what it described as a rigorous and merit-based selection process.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, disclosed this on Tuesday during the presentation of the appointment letter to Ofili at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Salako explained that the appointment process complied strictly with due process and the provisions of the law establishing the council.
He noted that vacancies were advertised in two national newspapers, after which applications were received and assessed based on clearly defined criteria.
The minister further revealed that petitions were received during the process but were subjected to legal review and found not to invalidate the exercise.
He said, “We have gone through a diligent and strict process. Having emerged as the best candidate, it became necessary for us to ensure that the acting position was quickly regularised so that the council can continue to effectively discharge its statutory responsibilities under a substantive leadership.”
Salako emphasised the importance of medical laboratory science in healthcare delivery, describing accurate diagnosis as the cornerstone of effective medical practice.
“Without correct diagnosis, healthcare practitioners would be operating in uncertainty. Medical laboratory science provides the evidence needed for quality healthcare and remains indispensable to our health system,” he said.
He charged the new Registrar to provide purposeful leadership aimed at strengthening regulation, improving professional standards, and advancing medical laboratory science in Nigeria.
The minister also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting healthcare professionals and fostering collaboration to improve health outcomes nationwide.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachollom, represented by the Director of Human Resource, Tetshoma Dafeta, urged the new Registrar to prioritise staff welfare and adhere strictly to administrative procedures.
She said the council must maintain close collaboration with the ministry, particularly on matters relating to appointments, promotions, and discipline.
Responding, Ofili expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to justify the appointment through dedicated service.
He assured stakeholders that the council would continue to effectively discharge its regulatory mandate while aligning with the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative of the ministry.
Ofili also pledged to strengthen regulatory oversight, uphold professional standards, improve staff welfare, and maintain a conducive working environment.
He added that he would work closely with professional bodies and stakeholders to sustain unity and progress within the profession.
The appointment takes immediate effect and is for a tenure of four years in line with the provisions of the MLSCN Act.