Nigeria Inaugurates National Genomics Surveillance Consortium

The Federal government has commissioned a National Genomics Surveillance Consortium (NGSC) to develop and review national strategies for genomic sequencing.

Genomic sequencing is a process for analyzing a sample of DNA taken from the blood.

At the event in Abuja, the Director General, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr Jide Idris said the consortium would also promote collaboration between stakeholders in Nigeria that are involved in genomic sequencing.

He noted that the NGSC is to Standardize protocols and procedures for genomic sequencing in Nigeria.

According to him, “Genomic sequencing, a cutting-edge laboratory technique, plays a critical role in identifying genetic mutations in various pathogens, including COVID-19, Ebola, and Lassa Fever.”

The DG also said the NGSC would provide technical advice to the government on the implementation of policies for genomic sequencing in the country.

While speaking on the importance of the NGSC, Dr Idris said” Effective management of data is now recognized as a matter of national security with profound economic and diplomatic implications.”

On his part, the Senior Laboratory/VCT Manager, United States Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC), Paul Okoye stressed the need for African countries to strengthen their disease surveillance mechanism to prevent future pandemics.

Paul Okoye noted that Genomic sequencing was not only vital for pandemics is also good for ongoing health challenges.

“Investing in infrastructure and human resources is essential, NCDC must elevate its coordination to curb disease spread effectively,” he said.

Members of the consortium were selected from the NCDC, Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Environment, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Research and Academic Institutions, Private Sector and Partners