A New Era for Nigerian Blood Service: Professor Abba Zubair Pledges to Achieve International Standards
In a significant development, Professor Abba Zubair, the appointed Board Chairman of the National Blood Service Commission, has vowed to transform the Nigerian blood service to meet international standards. During his inaugural meeting with top management staff, he outlined a comprehensive plan to enhance the commission’s operations.
Professor Zubair, a distinguished pathologist and consultant at Mayo Clinic in Florida, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. His impressive educational background spans three continents, including a medical degree from Ahmadu Bello University, a PhD in Tumour Immunology from the University of Sheffield, and post-doctoral fellowship and residency at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He also holds a Master of Clinical Science degree from Harvard Medical School and has participated in the Mayo Clinic’s Quality Academy.
The commission’s Director General, Professor Saleh Yuguda, welcomed Professor Zubair’s commitment and assured him of full support in addressing the concerns raised. With Professor Zubair at the helm, the National Blood Service Commission is poised to achieve unprecedented heights in blood service delivery, aligning with global best practices. This development is expected to significantly improve the quality and safety of blood services in Nigeria, ensuring better health outcomes for patients.
Earlier, Professor Zubair received his appointment letter as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Blood Service Commission from the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammed Ali Pate, at the Federal Ministry of Health. Professor Pate praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s human and natural resources to rebuild the nation. He emphasized that a well-functioning National Blood Service Commission is essential for ensuring a reliable and safe blood supply in Nigeria, and that the President expects medical facilities to adhere to accepted standards for blood collection, storage, and distribution through a well-regulated system.
In response, Professor Zubair thanked the President for the opportunity to serve his motherland.
