L–R: Manager, Nigerian Content Development, NLNG, Engr. Dagogo Bouwari; CMD, Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, Dr. Yusuf Abdullahi; GM, External Relations & Sustainable Development, NLNG, Sophia Horsfall; CMD, ATBUTH, Prof. Yusuf Bara Jibrin; Tafida of Bauchi, Prof. Y. M. Bashir and Head, Public Relations, NLNG, Iwokiri Aprioku, during the official handover of the newly commissioned laboratory complex
By Doris Obinna
On Thursday, June 26, Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) commissioned a state-of-the-art medical laboratory complex at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi, marking another milestone in its efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure across Nigeria.
This initiative is part of NLNG’s flagship Hospital Support Programme (HSP), a nationwide project aimed at enhancing medical services through the provision of modern facilities and technology. The Bauchi laboratory commissioning follows the recent opening of a neonatal ward and intensive care unit at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Asaba on June 6, 2025.
Equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, the new laboratory complex significantly expands ATBUTH’s capacity for timely and accurate medical diagnosis. Among the technologies housed in the facility are an Automated Tissue Processing Machine, Cryostat, Immunoassay Analyser, ELISA Washer, haematology systems, vein finders, and advanced microscopes.
The complex also features specialised spaces for sample preparation and storage, a solar-powered power supply system, automated access controls, and modernised reception and waiting areas designed for safety and efficiency.
Speaking at the commissioning, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, represented by General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, stated that the project reflects NLNG’s commitment to sustainable development and public health. He emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration, noting that the HSP creates meaningful partnerships that align business goals with societal needs.
Mshelbila revealed that the choice of ATBUTH was based on a comprehensive needs assessment, ensuring that the facility would serve a critical role in supporting medical practitioners and improving patient care. He noted that the HSP has already transformed healthcare delivery in ten institutions across Nigeria, fostering a growing network of high-quality medical support.
In his remarks, Chief Medical Director of ATBUTH, Prof. Yusuf Bara Jibrin, described the new laboratory as a “fortress of response” in the face of rising public health threats such as Lassa fever, antimicrobial resistance, and cancer. He commended NLNG for exceeding expectations in corporate social responsibility and announced that the hospital has developed a maintenance and operations plan to ensure the facility’s longevity.
Through the HSP, NLNG has delivered a range of medical infrastructure projects across Nigeria, including facilities focused on obstetrics, neonatal intensive care, occupational therapy, and neuromodulation rehabilitation. The programme underscores the company’s broader investment in national development beyond its core energy operations, extending into healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
NLNG continues to demonstrate leadership in private sector contributions to healthcare, reaffirming its mission to improve lives and build resilient communities through targeted, high-impact interventions.
