Lagos Targets Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Research to Transform Healthcare — Abayomi

Lagos State Government says it is exploring regenerative medicine, biomedical research and healthcare innovation as part of efforts to improve medical outcomes and promote healthier lives.

The state Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, disclosed this in a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday after representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the African Regenerative Medicine and Longevity Summit organised by Atunse Healthcare Limited.

Abayomi said the summit brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, innovators, policymakers, investors and development partners to discuss emerging opportunities in healthcare.

He said the state government was committed to creating an environment where medical innovation could thrive, while ensuring that advances in healthcare translated into better outcomes for residents.

READ ALSO: Lagos Upgrades Odan Doctors’ Residence Three Years After Vwaere Diaso Death

“The future of healthcare is not simply about treating disease. It is about preventing illness, restoring health, extending healthy years of life, and ensuring that innovation improves the quality of life for every citizen,” Abayomi said.

According to him, developments in regenerative medicine, including stem cell science, tissue engineering, precision medicine and biotechnology, were creating new possibilities for treating conditions that were previously difficult to manage.

He, however, stressed that emerging medical technologies must be supported by strong health systems and responsible innovation.

“In my introductory remarks, I reiterated that while we embrace emerging frontiers such as regenerative medicine, innovation must always be anchored on strong health systems,” he said.

Abayomi said Lagos was strengthening its healthcare infrastructure through investments in digital transformation, biomedical research, medical education and innovation.

He listed the Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP), Lagos Biobank, Lagos State Medical Industry and Innovation Zone (LASMIIZO), and the Lagos State University of Medicine and Health Sciences among initiatives designed to expand the state’s capacity for healthcare research and advanced medical practice.

The commissioner also highlighted the role of private-sector investment in advancing healthcare innovation, commending Aliko Dangote for his support for the summit.

He said Dangote’s vision for healthcare innovation aligned with the Lagos State Government’s strategy for building a healthier and more productive society.

Abayomi, who represented the governor at the event, said healthcare transformation could not be achieved by government alone, stressing the need for collaboration among researchers, universities, healthcare providers, technology companies, pharmaceutical organisations, investors, regulators and development partners.

He said platforms such as the summit provided opportunities for knowledge exchange, scientific collaboration and partnerships capable of accelerating healthcare innovation across Africa.

The commissioner also commended Atunse Healthcare Limited for convening the summit, saying the initiative provided an important platform for discussions on the future of healthcare on the continent.

“As His Excellency’s message reminded us, the future of healthcare will not be defined only by the hospitals we build, but by the knowledge we generate, the innovations we embrace, the partnerships we foster, and the people whose lives are transformed because we chose to invest in science, prevention and human wellbeing,” Abayomi said.

He called for continued investment in medical innovation and healthy ageing, with the goal of ensuring that Africans not only live longer but enjoy healthier and more fulfilling lives.