The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) has officially inaugurated a Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies, an initiative led by its Department of Paediatrics. The announcement was made in a statement released by LASUTH on Saturday.
This cutting-edge centre is designed to position LASUTH as a leader in neonatal healthcare training, both in Nigeria and the Sub-Saharan region, further solidifying the institution’s reputation as a pioneer in quality healthcare development.
The opening of the centre received significant support from Drager, a global leader in medical technology, which has pledged to provide advanced equipment and technical training to bolster LASUTH’s new neonatal programs.
Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, LASUTH’s Chief Medical Director, praised the Department of Paediatrics for its dedication to excellence in neonatal care. “The Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies marks another milestone in LASUTH’s journey toward achieving quaternary-level care.
This initiative reflects the Lagos State Government’s efforts to elevate healthcare standards,” Fabamwo stated. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his ongoing support in transforming LASUTH into a hub of healthcare excellence.
Dr. Ayodeji Akinola, a Consultant Neonatologist at LASUTH, shared details about the centre’s structure, which will encompass three specialised institutions: the Neonatal Ventilation Academy, focused on advanced respiratory care for neonates; the Lagos Neonatal POCUS School, which provides training in Point of Care Ultrasonography, including functional echocardiography, cranial, lung, and vascular imaging; and the Neonatal Invasive Procedure Training, specialising in invasive procedures such as central line placements, ventricular taps, and catheter insertions.
Akinola highlighted that LASUTH is the first Nigerian institution to gain full accreditation for subspecialty training in Neonatology from the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.
He further noted that Drager’s donation of equipment including mechanical ventilators, CPAP machines, a bilirubinometer, a pulse oximeter, and an advanced incubator will significantly enhance care at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Ayinke House.
Dr. Abdulahi Buhari, Sales and Applications Manager of West Africa, Medical Division, Drager Ghana Ltd., reiterated the company’s commitment to improving neonatal care in Nigeria. “Drager is proud to partner with LASUTH in this important mission.
With advanced technology and specialized training, we aim to enhance patient outcomes and make a lasting impact on neonatal care in the region,” Buhari stated.
Consultant Paediatrician Dr. Peter Ubuane emphasised the importance of this support: “This support from Drager will bolster the launch of the Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies, enabling us to raise the standard of neonatal care and expand our training capacity.”
The establishment of the Centre for Advanced Neonatal Studies (CANS) brings the total number of training institutions at LASUTH to six within just two years. Existing programs include 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.
This latest initiative underscores LASUTH’s commitment to healthcare innovation and capacity building, positioning the new centre to play a crucial role in advancing neonatal care across Nigeria and beyond.
