The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Oyo State Branch, has paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board (OYSPHCB), Dr. M. B. Olatunji, commending his exceptional leadership and numerous achievements in advancing medical laboratory services across the state’s primary healthcare system.
The visit which took place on Thursday, 8th May, 2025, was led by the newly elected AMLSN State Chairman, MLS Adebola Akinbile.
In attendance were members of the State Executive Council, representatives from the AMLSN OYSPHCB Chapter, and a former State Chairman, Dr. Kehinde Adegoke.
The delegation was warmly received by Dr. Olatunji alongside key directors of the Board.
In his address, MLS Akinbile applauded Dr. Olatunji for his visionary reforms, which has significantly elevated the role and impact of medical laboratory services within the PHC framework.
Highlight under Dr. Olatunji’s tenure, included recruitment of Medical Laboratory Scientists and Technicians to fill critical workforce gaps across PHC facilities;
Elevation and formal recognition of the laboratory cadre, ensuring equitable career progression and professional dignity;
Provision of running costs to laboratories, enabling routine operations, consumables, and service readiness;
Enhanced technical support and supervision, resulting in improved diagnostic accuracy and service reliability in PHC laboratories.
These achievements, according to the AMLSN, have directly contributed to better diagnostic services and overall improvement in patient care at the grassroots level.
Responding, Dr. Olatunji expressed appreciation for the recognition and reiterated his commitment to building a resilient and inclusive PHC system that meets the needs of all professional cadres.
He emphasized that sustainable health systems require coordinated, team-based approaches, pledging continued support for innovations that strengthen service delivery.
Dr. Olatunji announced the approval for the inclusion of Medical Laboratory Scientists in the PHC Management Teams at the LGA level.
This strategic move, he noted, is aimed at institutionalizing the role of laboratory professionals in PHC governance and decision-making, thereby improving quality assurance and aligning with global best practices.
The meeting was concluded with a renewed sense of partnership between the Board and the AMLSN, as both parties will be committed to advancing the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in Oyo State.
