The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) has commissioned a state-of-the-art laboratory complex at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing access to quality healthcare across Nigeria.
Commissioned on Thursday by the NLNG Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, represented by Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, the new laboratory will serve the hospital’s haematology, blood transfusion, and medical microbiology units.
The landmark project is part of NLNG’s flagship Hospital Support Programme (HSP)—an ongoing initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and boosting nationwide service delivery. The ATBUTH facility marks the tenth project completed under the programme.
Equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, the new lab significantly enhances the hospital’s capacity for accurate and timely diagnosis. Key features include:
- Automated Tissue Processing Machine
- Cryostat
- Immunoassay Analyser
- ELISA Washer
- Haematology Systems
- Vein Finders
- Specialised Microscopes
In addition, the laboratory includes dedicated sample preparation and storage areas, a solar-powered electrical system for uninterrupted operations, automated access controls, and a modern reception and waiting area—designed with safety, efficiency, and patient comfort in mind.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mshelbila said the commissioning reflects NLNG’s ongoing investment in the health and well-being of Nigerians. He noted that the project was informed by a comprehensive needs assessment, ensuring that the laboratory meets the current and future diagnostic demands of the hospital.
“The Hospital Support Programme is our way of building a network of care across Nigeria. It is transforming medical services in our partner institutions, restoring confidence among medical professionals, and renewing public hope for improved healthcare,” he stated.
He also emphasised that the initiative underscores the power of purposeful collaboration between private enterprise and public good.
So far, the HSP has impacted ten health institutions across Nigeria, delivering vital healthcare infrastructure in areas such as obstetrics, neonatal intensive care, occupational therapy, and neuromodulation rehabilitation.
According to Dr. Mshelbila, NLNG remains at the forefront of private sector contributions to healthcare development, investing not only in energy but also in education, healthcare, and critical infrastructure.
Chief Medical Director of ATBU Teaching Hospital, Professor Yusuf Jibrin, praised NLNG for going beyond conventional corporate social responsibility.
He stressed that the facility would serve as a critical frontline defence in the face of growing health threats such as Lassa fever, antimicrobial resistance, and cancer.
“This laboratory stands as a fortress of response, equipped with the tools, technologies, and skilled manpower required to detect, analyse, and guide timely medical interventions,” he said.
Professor Jibrin added that ATBUTH has already instituted a comprehensive maintenance and operations framework to ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility.
By Lizzy Carr
