The journey to quality laboratory services at the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) laboratory has been a mixed one over the years. With the challenges of inadequate power supply, commodity storage, equipment downtimes, and the ability to deliver high-quality, timely, and reliable results to recipients of care, the PCR lab received a significant upgrade to meet 21st-century deliverables.

The Accelerating Control of HIV Epidemic in Nigeria Cluster 5 Project (ECEWS ACE-5), with funding from PEPFAR through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), collaborated with the management of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) and embarked on a transformative journey with the implementation of cutting-edge technology and improved processes. Three Alinity machines were delivered to improve testing services and laboratory capacity utilization. Workshops were facilitated by Abbott Application Specialists from South Africa to equip laboratory workers with the critical skills required to operate and perform basic operations and troubleshooting skills. The state-of-the-art solution of providing the Alinity machines, renowned for their precision, speed, and ease of use, highlights the pivotal role of exceptional technical support in achieving operational excellence. The PCR Lab also received a brand new 150 kVA generating set to boost the power supply and ensure uninterrupted service delivery. A contract for a solar-powered system to back up the lab has also been awarded by the project management.