Professional chemists, operating under the auspices of the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN), are calling for the establishment of a National Public Analytic Laboratory in the country.
The laboratory, they believe, will give Nigerians the opportunity to analyse materials, food and cosmetic samples in order to ensure there is improve standard and quality in what is offered to consumers.
Registrar of IPAN, Professor David Oluleye, stated this recently in Lagos during the investiture of fellows and induction of new members into the institute.
Professor Oluleye said IPAN was constituted to complement the role of the National Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) in ensuring standards in the country, and that Nigerians are meant to benefit from the synergy between the two bodies.
He charged the new members to abide by the rules governing the activities of member by ensuring standards are maintained at all times without cutting corners and involving in sharp practices.
According to Oluleye, IPAN is charged with improving the provision of healthcare and wholesomeness of consumer goods and services.
President of IPAN, Balogun Ganiyu Sanni, expressed displeasure with members for not setting up new laboratories. He urged them to turn a new leaf to adequately fulfil their roles as stated by the laws establishing the institute.
Sanni underlined the need for IPAN to upgrade and maintain global standards because, according to him, they are competing with analysts from other parts of the world. He also called for specialisation in analysis in the area of biological, chemical and device safety.
Registrar of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board and also the guest lecturer at the occasion, Dr. Samuel Ntem, in a presentation noted that professional excellence is needed in every field of life “because it is vital in changing and impacting the society.”
He charged the new fellows and members of IPAN to maintain high standards in their dealings as they owe the society a responsibility.
A total of nine fellows and 21 members were inducted into the institute.
By Tina Armstrong-Ogbonna
