President, Dangote Industries Ltd, Mr Aliko Dangote, has beckoned the Federal Government to grant private laboratories permission to run coronavirus tests alongside government centres.
According to him, giving approval to qualified private laboratories would reduce the waiting period for suspected COVID-19 cases.
The billionaire made this known in a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Lagos State.
“There are currently five government laboratories equipped to handle all the testing in Nigeria.
“However, we have many more quality ones that can do it, but are not yet approved by the government to do so,” he added.
The statement also noted that Dangote and the Managing Director, Access Bank Group, Mr Herbert Wigwe, are spearheading a coalition of private sector organisations to support governments’ ongoing efforts at tackling the coronavirus menace.
Giving details of the coalition, Dangote said, “The coalition is working with Lagos State Government to erect fully-equipped medical tents that will serve as training, testing, isolation and treatment centres.
“We are also providing an additional facility on Victoria Island, Lagos.
“To win this battle, it is critical we all come together as one,” Dangote added.
He disclosed that work had begun to ensure the facilities were completed in good time to serve the growing need of the population.
