Abuja: The Federal Government has introduced the Standards and Guidelines for Establishing and Coordinating Organ/Tissue Transplantation Services in Nigeria, signifying a major development in the regulation and enhancement of organ donation and transplantation practices within the nation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, announced the initiative in Abuja, emphasizing the government’s dedication to preserving lives through ethical organ transplantation procedures. Represented by Dr. Jimoh Salaudeen, Salako highlighted that organ transplantation transcends being just a medical procedure and is a life-saving intervention offering renewed hope to those battling end-stage organ failure. He noted that the guidelines, validated on November 13, 2024, lay the groundwork for safe, ethical, and transparent organ and tissue transplantation services.
The guidelines were developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals, legal experts, and other stakeholders, addressing critical aspects such as donor protection, patient safety, and ethical practices. Salako underscored the importance of public awareness, infrastructural development, and regulatory enforcement to overcome challenges like unethical organ harvesting and the necessity for informed consent.
Dr. Salako commended the efforts of the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standards Committee (NTHISC) and urged stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of these guidelines. He emphasized the need for collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and civil society to foster an environment where organ donation is ethically managed.
Prof. Phillip Abiodun, Chairman of the NTHISC, described the launch as a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system. He acknowledged past irregularities and exploitation in organ transplantation and highlighted the new guidelines as a commitment to ethical medical practices. Abiodun detailed the guidelines’ focus on ethical considerations, informed consent, and donor protection, aligning with global standards while addressing Nigeria’s unique challenges.
He announced key reforms such as certification requirements for healthcare institutions conducting transplants and the establishment of strict oversight mechanisms. The initiative also includes creating a national database to track donations and transplants, ensuring transparency. Abiodun called for cultural and religious reorientation regarding organ donation, encouraging initiatives like declaring ‘organ donor’ status on driver’s licenses.
Rep. Abiola Makinde, Chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, reinforced the House of Representatives’ commitment to safeguarding human rights in organ transplantation through legislative support. He commended the initiative’s emphasis on informed consent and pledged collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health to address violations and human rights concerns related to organ transplantation.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the event was attended by key stakeholders in the health sector, marking a crucial step toward establishing ethical and standardised organ transplantation services in the country.