SYNLAB, a global medical diagnostic service provider has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Pathcare Nigeria Limited, a private pathology laboratory group in Nigeria.
A move expected to strengthen laboratory diagnostics in Nigeria and curb the trend of medical tourism that currently cost Nigerians over N400 billion annually.
Pathcare Nigeria, a major player in the field of human laboratory diagnostics, with a special focus on public-private partnerships (PPP), through the acquisition, will open its strong market position to SYNLAB, based on its high-quality service and the breadth of its nationwide test portfolio network.
The transaction with SYNLAB will therefore allow Pathcare Nigeria the ability to offer its Nigerian customers an extended portfolio of specialised tests being sourced from the SYNLAB network. Furthermore, the company will benefit from technological advancements and comprehensive cost-effective solutions to enhance the local business with hospitals and other clients.
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Thomas Daggett, CEO, SYNLAB Emerging Markets, in a statement said the acquisition will enable Nigerians to benefit from an enhanced laboratory diagnostics test portfolio of SYNLAB’s international expertise. “Nigeria has a population of about 186 million, but a large proportion of the population does not yet have access to modern medical diagnostics,” he stated.
Pamela Ajayi, Managing Director, Pathcare Nigeria, in her remarks said the investment made by SYNLAB through the acquisition will positively impact on healthcare development in Nigeria. “Pathcare Nigeria will continue to push the boundaries. The launch of this premier facility in Lagos with some of the most sophisticated technology in cytology and microbiology is just the beginning,” she stated.
According to her, Pathcare is pleased to be joining SYNLAB global diagnostics network. “There will be huge advantages to having the European Diagnostic Leader in Nigeria, bringing the most modern technological advancements in the field within the reach of every Nigerian,” Ajayi concludes.
With more than 200 employees, Pathcare Nigeria operates six laboratories and 21 blood collection points across Nigeria and is also engaged in a PPP arrangement with the leading public hospital in Lagos on laboratory diagnostics blood testing.
Seyi John Salau
