FG introduces guidelines to regulate organ transplant services

The Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako, announced the initiative today during the official launch of the guidelines in Abuja. He described the document as a major step toward improving organ donation practices in the country, offering life-saving opportunities for individuals suffering from end-stage organ failure.

According to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Alaba Balogun, the guidelines were developed through extensive collaboration with healthcare professionals, legal experts, professional bodies, and other key stakeholders.

“Today, we are here to unveil a comprehensive framework that will regulate organ and tissue transplantation services in our country. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to saving lives through ethical practices and robust oversight mechanisms,” Salako stated.

He noted that recent cases of unethical organ harvesting have highlighted the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect both donors and recipients.

Represented by the Director of the Hospital Services Department, Salahudeen Jimoh, the minister explained that the guidelines focus on key areas such as ethics in transplantation, donor protection, patient safety, and compliance with minimum standards.

“These guidelines aim to restore trust in organ donation in Nigeria by promoting transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices,” he added.

To strengthen the regulatory framework, Salako emphasized the need for proper mapping and certification of health institutions involved in organ transplantation to ensure they meet the highest standards.

He further disclosed plans to establish an organ donation and transplantation registry and banking system to streamline the management of organ donations nationwide.