Connect with us

General News

IFC, GE Healthcare Develop High Quality Health Diagnostics in Nigeria

Published

on

general-electricGE-logo.jpg
Kindly share this post

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, announced a partnership with SRL Limited, GE Healthcare and Echo-Scan Services Limited for the development of a chain of health diagnostic centers across Nigeria.

As part of the consortium, IFC will invest $12 million for the development of the new advanced, comprehensive diagnostic centers, and SRL, the largest operator of diagnostic centers in India and current IFC client, will operate the centers and provide personnel training.

GE Healthcare will serve as the joint development partner and key technology solutions provider, bringing a range of diagnostic imaging equipment, training, and $5 million of investment.

The new company, which will build on the services currently offered by Echo-Scan, will for the first time provide access to more sophisticated health technology for Nigerians who cannot afford to leave the country for services.

Currently, Echo-Scan’s seven clinics serve about 250,000 patients a year, about one-third of which are expectant mothers, providing sonograms, basic x-rays, and lab tests for malaria, viral and bacterial infections.

New investment will support the construction of two additional flagship centers and the refurbishment of existing centers to enable them to offer more advanced Lab Medicine (Histopathology, Cytogenetics, Genetic  disorders, Molecular Diagnostics) and Imaging Services (MRI, High resolution CT scans). The project, which will be implemented in phases, eventually aims to serve one million patients annually.

SRL Limited is a part of the well-known Fortis Group. It operates over 270 labs about 6500 collection points across India and beyond. 

SRL will operate and manage the centers in Nigeria, and be responsible for planning, organizing, staffing and equipping the centers, and also creating systems and Standard Operating Protocols.

SRL plans to install its proprietary IT solution – “Centralized Lab Information Management System (CLIMS)” to ensure seamless working of each and every segment of the network. GE will be the technology partner for radiology.

Dr. Ayodele Cole Benson, Echo-Scan co-Founder and Managing Director, said, “Working with partners to create Eagle-Eye Echo-Scan will help us fulfill our vision of delivering high quality health services in Nigeria. This new company will provide career development for current staff and greater professional opportunities for Nigerian medical professionals to remain in their home country and work in state-of-the-art facilities, which benefits the entire health system.”

Eme Essien Lore, IFC Country Manager for Nigeria said, “Population growth, rising incomes, and greater incidence of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes are increasing demand for health care in Nigeria, the largest economy in Africa. Pathology and radiology play an important role in the prevention and care of these chronic conditions.”  

Sanjeev Vashishta, CEO of SRL Limited said, “We have to reach out to the masses. Diagnostics Services have to be provided to the citizens of the country closer to their homes and there is no reason for anybody to travel hundreds of miles to get quality health and diagnostics services, let alone leave Nigeria for the right tests and healthcare. Project Eagle Eye will endeavor to bring back the talented doctors, scientists, technologists who left the country by providing them with the opportunity to work on the high-end and contemporary technologies right here in Nigeria.”

Farid Fezoua, President and CEO of GE Healthcare Africa said: “At GE Healthcare, we believe that sustainable healthcare development requires a system-wide approach, combining technology, capacity-building, including training, service and maintenance, as well as long-term financing. To that end, this multi-disciplinary partnership between IFC, Echo Scan, SRL and GE aims to expand access to quality and affordable diagnostic imaging in the private sector and complements significant efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s growing health sector.

We look forward to working closely with our partners towards ensuring the long-term success of this venture to enable better outcomes for more Nigerian patients and in setting a new healthcare delivery model throughout Africa.”  Good health makes it possible for people to work, study and care for their families, and expanding access to health services is a priority for development. IFC is the world’s largest multilateral investor in private healthcare, with nearly $3 billion worth of health investments in more than 50 countries over the past 15 years. IFC investments in service providers, pharmaceuticals and medical technology are aimed at promoting greater access to affordable, high-quality healthcare in developing countries.


Kindly share this post

Nigeria CommunicationsWeek believes that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. So since 2007, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and how they affect lives.

General News

Lagos Lawmakers Commend LIRS on Historic N1 Trillion Revenue Milestone

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Legislators in Lagos State have commended the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) for achieving an unprecedented milestone in revenue generation, surpassing ₦1 trillion.

This landmark accomplishment positions LIRS as the first sub-national revenue agency in Nigeria to attain such a feat, reflecting its professionalism, efficiency, and commitment to transparent tax administration.

Former Chairman of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budgeting, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh, alongside Hon. Femi Saheed, former Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, lauded LIRS and its Executive Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Subair, for their exemplary leadership and dedication to enhancing the state’s revenue performance.

In a recent interview, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh described the achievement as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the LIRS team. He emphasized that Lagos State has set a benchmark in revenue collection, serving as a model for other states to emulate. Representing the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency 01 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, he praised Mr. Subair for fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation within the agency, which has significantly contributed to its success.

Speaking during the 2024 budget signing ceremony, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh conveyed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that Lagos State has reached an exceptional level in revenue generation.

He acknowledged LIRS’s historic achievement of surpassing the N1 trillion mark and expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to exceed future targets.

He further urged the state government to sustain its support for LIRS, emphasizing that continued improvements in revenue collection could reduce reliance on external borrowing.

“You cannot expect remarkable results without placing the right people in key positions. LIRS is managed by a team of highly skilled professionals. While it operates as a government agency, its structure and operations reflect global best practices.

“The agency has evolved into a world-class institution, moving from Good Shepherd’s House to the state-of-the-art Revenue House. A visit to its facilities will reveal an environment that fosters excellence.

“Under the leadership of Mr. Ayodele Subair, a visionary and dedicated professional, LIRS has achieved remarkable success. The agency’s work culture and improved operational environment have been instrumental in reaching this milestone,” Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh stated.

Looking ahead, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh noted that based on LIRS’s consistent performance, the revenue target for 2025 has been set at N1.4 trillion.

He assured that as Lagos’s economy continues to expand and more employment opportunities are created, this growth in revenue collection would not impose additional burdens on residents but rather result from enhanced tax compliance and structured reforms.

“LIRS has demonstrated steady growth over the past five years. We have set a revenue target of N1.4 trillion for 2025, and I am confident that the agency can surpass this goal. Lagos State has the capacity to generate over N4 trillion in internal revenue without negatively impacting its residents,” he added.

He also highlighted the role of upcoming tax reforms at the federal level, noting that the Joint Tax Board (JTB) would ensure a well-structured tax administration system.

He reassured the public that no adverse fiscal policies would be introduced, emphasizing that the focus remains on improving compliance and fostering a positive tax culture.

In a formal congratulatory letter addressed to Mr. Subair, Hon. Femi Saheed, who represents Kosofe II Constituency, commended the LIRS team for their dedication, resilience, and strategic approach to revenue collection.

He reiterated the Lagos State House of Assembly’s commitment to providing the necessary legislative support to enable the agency to achieve even greater success.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and your forward-thinking management team for surpassing the N1 trillion revenue mark in 2024.

“My colleagues and I commend your resilience, transparency, and commitment to excellence. Your achievements bring immense pride to Lagos State, and I am confident that 2025 will be even more rewarding.

“As a key revenue agency, we remain dedicated to supporting your efforts in achieving greater milestones,” the letter stated.

With this historic achievement, LIRS continues to reinforce its position as a leader in revenue generation, setting new standards for tax administration in Nigeria.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

TD Africa Unveils Super App Version 2, Transforms Technology Access Across Africa

Published

on

Omowumi Oladele, Project Manager, TD Africa
Kindly share this post

TD Africa, a leading technology distributor in Africa, has launched TD Super App Version 2, an upgraded, feature-rich platform designed to revolutionize technology procurement for individuals and businesses.

Omowumi Oladele, Project Manager, TD Africa

The enhanced App offers seamless access to a wide range of cutting-edge tech products at unbeatable prices, with faster delivery options to improve efficiency and convenience.

Available on both web and mobile, the revamped TD Super App boasts an intuitive, user-friendly interface, making it easier than ever for users to discover and purchase technology products.

This latest upgrade reaffirms TD Africa’s commitment to affordability, efficiency, and convenience, ensuring that businesses and individuals can access the tools they need to succeed.

With exclusive deals and discounts, registered users can enjoy significant savings on a vast selection of technology products, including computing devices, smartphones, consumer electronics, and power solutions. Optimized logistics and accelerated delivery times further enhance the shopping experience, ensuring that customers receive their technology essentials quickly and reliably.

“At TD Africa, we are dedicated to delivering value, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology solutions that drive business growth and streamline operations,” said Omowumi Oladele, Product Manager, TD Africa.

“The upgraded TD Super App Version 2 is designed to simplify procurement, enhance productivity, and maximize savings—empowering businesses and individuals across Africa.”

The App is now available for download on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android). Users can also access the platform via web browsers at superapp.tdafrica.com


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

FG Drops Merger of NCAA, NAMA

Published

on

Kindly share this post

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has stepped down the merger of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) as recommended by the Steve Oronsaye report.

He also revealed that the aviation industry was exempted from the foreign travel ban placed on federal government officials last year. The President announced the ban which took effect from April last year.

Keyamo disclosed that the aviation sector was exempted from the ban because President Tinubu is desirous of change and growth in the sector.

The ban was placed following the rising cost of travel expenses by Ministries, Department and Agencies of Government.

The memo released last year stated: “Considering the current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management, I am writing to communicate Mr Presideni’s directive to place a temporary ban on all publicly funded international trips for all federal government officials at all levels, for an initial period of three months from 1st April 2024.

“All government officials who intend to go on any publicly funded international trips must seek and obtain Presidential approval at least two weeks before embarking on any such trip, which must be deemed necessary”.

The Minister disclosed the reasons for the exemption in Abuja at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

On the merger of NCAA and NAMA, he said: “From modest beginnings, we have witnessed remarkable transformations in our sector, ranging from enhanced supervisory measures and policies formulation, safety and security oversight, robust legislative and regulatory frameworks, advancements in air traffic management, development, expansion and certification of airports, accurate meteorological services, timely accident investigations, manpower development, and indeed, the growth of indigenous airlines.

“These achievements have not come without challenges. However, with the efforts of past administrations and the total support of the present administration under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Agenda and the five focus areas of the ministry, we have overcome challenges and reached new heights.

“NCAA is a child of God, and despite turbulent waters and attempts sometimes to kill the NCAA, the NCA has survived 25 years. And I’m sure you know that any child that is born at the age of 25, of course, is undoubtedly an age of maturity.

“The Oronsanye reports also recommended the merger of NCAA and NAMA. And so that was also another attempt to kill the NCAA. That report was passed from Jonathan’s government to Buhari’s government, and then to the present government.

“It was one of the first items we considered in this government. So the Oronsanye reports came up that day, and the president went on and on, considered every item in the Oronsanye report, and asked the council to vote. And for each item, they would listen to the ministers and so the president came to the merger of NCAA and NAMA as one body.

“I raised my hand, I spoke for about five minutes and because we have a wonderful president who listens to good counsel and good arguments, after I finished speaking, he said, an item dropped, the merger of NCAA and NAMA would not remain”.

On the reasons for the exemption, he said: “It is a fact that the aviation sector remains a pillar of national development, facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. Whilst it is yet to realize its true potential in terms of contribution to our nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), we must renew our commitment to ensuring a more progressive, sustainable, inclusive, innovative, and prosperous aviation industry.

“This necessitates the continuous adoption and integration of emerging technologies, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in human capital development to keep our skies safer and secure and attain cohesive and efficient air transportation services.

“The President directed that foreign travels should stop, except in exceptional circumstances. Last year, there was a memo around March that said it was for three months, and the President, because of his desire to ensure that we are frugal in our spending; there was another memo again in December reiterating that memo last year we should cut down on foreign travels, except by direct presidential approval.

“But let us also give particular thanks to Mr. President, because despite that memo, since last year, he has made an exception for the aviation industry. I wrote a memo to him after that directive on behalf of the entire agency that says; Sir, we respect your directive; yes, we need to be frugal because the Nigerian people have also tightened their belts in the face of the economic reforms that are taking place.

“However, because of the safety of this sector, Sir, we need to make some exceptions for this sector. And the President graciously granted this for the aviation sector”.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending