MON, JUN 01 2020-theG&BJournal- Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, Monday commissioned a new mobile laboratory facility to fast track coronavirus testing in the State.
Governor Fayemi said the mobile laboratory will remain in the State even after the coronavirus pandemic has abated and would be utilized as a fully functional molecular laboratory.
‘’This will bolster the State’s molecular testing capabilities and maybe used by medical researchers and clinicians within Ekiti State in the event of any future outbreaks,’’ the Governor said.
The lab which is installed at the Ekiti State Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado Ekiti, is in partnership with 54gene, a company set up to provide genomic data for Africa.
‘’54gene will provide operational support and staffing by providing molecular scientists with the necessary skill set required to handle the instruments in the mobile laboratory,’’ the Governor said.
The lab is equipped with vital testing instruments and biosafety materials including an autoclave, biosafety cabinet, centrifuge, heating blocks, vortexes, pipettes, and CPR machines to suppor COVID-19 testing.
The initiative is one of the interventions being facilitated by the Ekiti State COVID-19 Response Resource Mobilization Committee, set up by Governor Fayemi, to attract effective support base to respond to the threats posed by the pandemic to citizens of the State.
‘’The State now has a testing capacity of up to 400 tests daily and will be conducting tests across all 16 local government areas to facilitate early detection of the coronavirus and ensure timely and adequate treatment of infected persons,’’ Governor Fayemi said at the commissioning of the facility.
COVID-19 mobile labs is pioneered in the country by 54gene, and accredited by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The company is already carrying out COVID-19 testing in Lagos, Kano and Ogun States.
Meanwhile, the State Governor Sunday announced fresh relaxation of lockdown movement with effect from today.
The relaxation will allow residents of the state opportunities to pursue their businesses Mondays through Friday from 6am to 8pm. Also public officers on Grade level 8 and above are to resume for duty while those on Grade Level 7 and below are to remain at home until further notice.
The governor also emphasized that the dusk-to-dawn curfew will resume daily at 8pm and will last till 5.59 am of the following morning.
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