The Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS) has presented the 2026 External Quality Assessment (EQA) Proficiency Testing performance notifications to successful public and private blood banks across the state, marking a major step in strengthening transfusion safety and laboratory standards in Lagos.
The presentation ceremony, held at the LSBTS headquarters in Gbagada, signalled the successful conclusion of the agency’s 2026 EQA/Proficiency Testing (PT) programme. Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of LSBTS, Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, said the 2026 exercise recorded notable improvements compared to the 2025 cycle.
She attributed the progress to sustained training, regulatory enforcement, and collaboration across the health sector, noting that these efforts have significantly enhanced compliance and performance among participating facilities.
Dr. Osikomaiya explained that the EQA programme was introduced to address the lack of measurable indicators for assessing the competence of medical laboratory scientists and the operational quality of blood banks, adding that it has now become a critical benchmark for performance evaluation in the state.
She noted that following gaps identified during the maiden 2025 exercise, the service implemented targeted interventions, including hands-on practical trainings, structured sessions, and continuous medical education to strengthen technical capacity and clinical decision-making among practitioners.
According to her, participation in the 2026 cycle was impressive, with over 170 facilities enrolled and a high submission rate recorded within stipulated timelines, reflecting improved compliance among both public and private operators.
While commending the progress made, the Executive Secretary warned that underperforming facilities would face strict measures, including mandatory retraining and repeat assessments, with the possibility of closure for those that fail to meet minimum standards.
She reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to patient safety and quality healthcare delivery, while also appreciating private sector operators and the support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the state health leadership for funding the programme and ensuring free participation for facilities.
