By Abdullahi Lukman
Laboratory professionals have raised concerns over poor regulation of sachet water production in Nigeria, linking it to rising cases of waterborne diseases, lead poisoning and typhoid-related deaths.
The practitioners, drawn from research, testing, calibration, education and manufacturing laboratories, blamed lapses by regulatory bodies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and government health ministries for the situation.
The concerns were highlighted during the 2026 World Laboratory Day celebration held in Iseyin, Oyo State, themed “Rethinking The Role of Laboratories in Global Health and Development.”
Participants also called on federal and state governments to improve the remuneration of laboratory workers to curb the increasing migration of skilled professionals abroad.
Speaking at the event, Taslim Owonikoko stressed that inadequate welfare has contributed to brain drain in the sector, warning that continued neglect could worsen challenges in healthcare, manufacturing and education.
In his lecture, Femi Oyediran criticised the current monitoring system for sachet water producers, noting that regulatory checks are often conducted only during certification and renewal periods, leaving long gaps without proper testing.
He warned that contaminated water remains a major contributor to preventable diseases and deaths, urging stricter and more consistent oversight of water producers across communities.
Experts at the event emphasised that strengthening laboratory systems and regulation could significantly reduce preventable deaths in low- and middle-income countries, particularly through improved diagnostic testing and product quality control.
