In a bold demonstration of professional solidarity, advocacy, and environmental responsibility, the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) convened its 19th Annual Public Health Lecture and Special General Meeting (SGM) on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State. The gathering, themed: “Environmental Degradation and Pollution: Advancing Public Health for Sustainability and Healthy Environment,” brought together leading Scientists, Policymakers, and Public Health experts from across Nigeria.
At the heart of the discussions was the urgent call to action against environmental degradation, a major contributor to the country’s rising burden of non-communicable diseases. The event featured expert presentations underscoring the devastating link between pollution and illnesses such as cancer, while urging comprehensive environmental health interventions.
Opening the Public Health Lecture, key stakeholders highlighted the intersection between environmental sustainability and public health. The consensus was clear: Nigeria must urgently implement policies to curb pollution and protect vulnerable populations.
DG NIPPS, giving his speech through his representative, Dr. Kingsley
“The environment is the silent patient we often ignore until it becomes a crisis,” one expert noted during the session, emphasizing that reversing environmental degradation is a prerequisite for sustainable health outcomes.
The AMLSN leadership extended heartfelt appreciation to the Plateau State Government and His Excellency, the Governor of Plateau State, for the exceptional support and conducive environment provided for the successful hosting of the national event.
A major resolution adopted during the SGM addressed the internal leadership crisis facing the Association. Delegates reaffirmed their support for the duly elected and legitimately sworn-in 15th National President, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, and unanimously called on all elected National Executive Officers (NEOs) to align with his leadership in accordance with Article 8 of the 2018 AMLSN Constitution (as amended). Failure to comply, they warned, could result in bye-elections to fill such positions.
The meeting also cited the recent ruling by the High Court of Justice, Nasarawa State, which perpetually restrains any parallel meeting by factional NEOs without the authorization of the recognized President. The SGM strongly condemned any unconstitutional gatherings and called for strict adherence to the Association’s legal framework.
A cross section of participants
In a decisive move to preserve the integrity of the profession, the SGM reaffirmed the suspension of Dr. Uche Odionyenma, previously agreed upon at the 60th Annual General Meeting in Owerri. Delegates denounced his alleged divisive actions, particularly his continued claim to the presidency of AMLSN, and directed him to cease parading himself in that capacity.
The Association commended the Federal Government for legislative advancements aimed at strengthening the profession. Notably, the repeal of the Act establishing the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Jos, and the proposal to establish a Federal University of Medical Laboratory Science with campuses in the South-South and South-West were hailed as visionary.
Good will message from Hon Daniel Nanbol Listick member Representing Langtang North Central.
State Constituency and Chairman House committee on Labour and Security.
“These reforms are not just structural—they are strategic. They will bridge the human resource gap in Nigeria’s healthcare system and accelerate the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC),” Dr. Ifeanyi said.
The meeting acknowledged the ongoing intervention efforts by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and Minister of State, Dr. Iziaq Salako, in resolving internal disputes within AMLSN. Delegates expressed confidence in the committee led by the Registrar of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) to restore harmony within the Association.
Key officers were lauded for their steadfast commitment to constitutional principles and the preservation of AMLSN’s integrity. These include the 14th National President, Prof. James Damen (the Ex-Officio & immediate past National President), First Vice President Robert Ashi, Second Vice Presidents Dr. Otareh Otare and Mukhtar Mainasara Yeldu, National Publicity Secretary Prince Adedire Adeyinka, and National Treasurer Idongesit Bassey.
Rising national insecurity was also addressed with grave concern. The SGM urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward restoring peace and security across all regions. Simultaneously, it called on Medical Laboratory Scientists nationwide to remain vigilant, united and professionally focused.
Goodwill Message from Dr Nicholas Daamlong Commissioner for Health Plateau state Ably Represented by Pharm Yarep Haruna Director for Pharmaceutical Services Plateau State.
“Unity is our strongest defense against external threats and internal fractures,” said one branch chairman during deliberations.
The Association congratulated one of its members — Dr. Donald Ofili on his appointment as Acting Registrar of MLSCN and urged him to steer the Council towards international best practices. Similarly, the SGM extended appreciation to the National Universities Commission (NUC) for approving the Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science (MLSD) programme, and to TETFUND for supporting infrastructure and capacity development.
In a stirring conclusion, AMLSN reiterated its commitment to environmental health advocacy, science-driven public enlightenment, and collaborative action. The communique called on all tiers of government and relevant stakeholders to implement urgent policies to combat environmental degradation.
“Our resolve is firm,” Dr. Ifeanyi declared. “We will continue to lead from the frontlines—protecting the health of Nigerians through our professional expertise, environmental vigilance, and ethical leadership.”
Vote of thanks by LOC
Signatories to the Communique Include:
Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, 15th National President
Prince Robert Ashi, Vice President
Elder Otareh O. Otareh, 2nd Vice President (South-South)
Apostle Ekerete Bassey, Akwa Ibom Branch Chairman
Dr. Abba Paul Ogor, Benue Branch Chairman
Mr. Dennis Ekpo, Cross River Branch Chairman
Dr. Bini Nathaniel, Delta Branch Chairman
M.A. Gimba, Sokoto Branch Chairman
Innocent A. Asika, Adamawa Branch Chairman
Sani Ali Gwaram, Jigawa Branch Chairman
Hon. Ibekwe Chidozie, Imo Branch Chairman
Okeh Emmanuel, Ebonyi Branch Chairman
As the dust settles in Kuru, AMLSN emerges more united, more resolved, and more determined to safeguard the health and future of Nigeria—one laboratory, one policy, and one environment at a time.
