The Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) accreditation team, in collaboration with the ECEWS ACE-5 Project laboratory unit, conducted baseline quality assessments across eight supported laboratories in Etinan, Oron, Ibeno, Eket, Oruk Anam, Urueoffong, Ikono and Essien Udim LGAS, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen diagnostic systems and service delivery in preparation for accreditation.  

The exercise applied the WHO-AFRO Stepwise Laboratory Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (SLIPTA) framework developed by the World Health Organization and aligned with International Organization for Standardization ISO 15189:2022 standards to evaluate laboratory quality management systems, documentation, workflow processes, and compliance structures. Assessments were implemented through structured in-briefings, guided facility walkthroughs, document reviews, technical feedback sessions, and out-brief presentations, promoting transparency, shared learning, and institutional ownership of quality improvement.  

Across the assessed facilities, laboratory teams demonstrated strong commitment to quality standards, with notable capacity in routine procedures, documentation practices, and service delivery processes. Following completion of facility assessments, joint debrief meetings were held with Hospital Management Boards to present findings and recommend priority actions, including strengthening workforce capacity, enhancing government-supported training, safeguarding critical equipment, and prioritizing laboratory professionals in recruitment processes. The Management teams acknowledged the results and expressed willingness to support corrective actions, reinforcing leadership accountability, and institutional commitment. 

Overall, the assessment strengthened facility readiness for accreditation, advanced diagnostic reliability, and reaffirmed partner support for sustainable, high-quality laboratory systems within the state.