The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital has launched a Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies, a milestone development aimed at positioning the institution as a leader in neonatal healthcare training across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
According to a statement released on Saturday, the initiative was spearheaded by LASUTH’s Department of Paediatrics, with significant support from global medical technology leader, Drager, which has pledged to donate advanced medical equipment and provide technical training for the center’s programs.
LASUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, lauded the Department of Paediatrics for its dedication to improving neonatal care. “The establishment of this center represents a significant stride towards quaternary-level healthcare at LASUTH. It also aligns with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to raising healthcare standards,” Fabamwo said.
He extended his gratitude to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his continued efforts in transforming LASUTH into a world-class healthcare facility.
The Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies will offer specialized programs, including the Neonatal Ventilation Academy, which focuses on advanced respiratory care for newborns, and the Lagos Neonatal POCUS School, providing training in Point of Care Ultrasonography.
The programs will cover critical areas such as functional echocardiography, cranial imaging, lung, and vascular assessments, alongside invasive procedures like central line placements and catheter insertions.
Dr. Modupe Akinola, Head of Paediatrics at LASUTH, emphasized that LASUTH is the first institution in Nigeria to achieve full accreditation for subspecialty training in Neonatology from the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.
“We are thrilled that this new center will not only improve the quality of neonatal care but will also expand our training capacity, ensuring that more healthcare professionals are equipped with the skills needed to deliver high-quality care,” Akinola stated.
Drager’s contribution, which includes mechanical ventilators, CPAP machines, pulse oximeters, an advanced incubator, and other vital equipment, is expected to enhance neonatal care at the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, located within the Ayinke House.
Dr Abdulahi Buhari, Sales and Applications Manager for West Africa at Drager, reiterated the company’s dedication to improving neonatal healthcare.
“Drager is proud to collaborate with LASUTH on this important mission. By combining cutting-edge technology with comprehensive training, we are confident in making a lasting impact on neonatal care in Nigeria,” Buhari said.
Dr Peter Ubuane, Consultant Paediatrician at LASUTH, further highlighted the importance of the partnership. “Drager’s support will be crucial as we launch the Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies, which will enable us to elevate neonatal care standards while expanding our training programs,” Ubuane noted.
The establishment of the new center increases the number of training institutions at LASUTH to six in the last two years, joining the School of Anaesthetic Technology, School of Orthopaedic Cast Technology, School of Echocardiography, Caregiver Academy, and the Advanced Professional Diploma in Hospital Administration and Management.
With the launch of CANS, LASUTH reaffirms its commitment to healthcare innovation and capacity building, with the center set to play a pivotal role in advancing neonatal care standards both in Nigeria and across the region.
