U.S based human genomics company announces the launch of their Nigerian Clinical Program Services (CPS) division operations at the unveiling of the first African private lab capable of performing human whole-genome sequencing.
The announcement was made by the company’s CEO, Abasi Ene-Obong on his Twitter account which also stated their adoption of ground-breaking technology, NovaSeq 6000 Sequencing System.
This follows an earlier announcement made in September 2020, of the partnership between Illumina and 54Gene to setup a genetics facility in Lagos. Another key partner, Certara, a global leader in biosimulation, will be performing oversight functions and providing support during studies.
Genetics research is a new development in Nigeria healthcare with 54Gene pioneering participation in this field and paving the way to specialized medicinal solutions more suited to people in Africa.
Chief Commercial Officer 54gene, Jessica Rich commented, “The inclusion of Africans in clinical programs is critical to the production of medicines and health products that are more efficacious and safe for people of African descent.
It is vital that we continue to collaborate with African researchers and institutions to generate data that meets the scientific rigor found in worldwide studies and to increase African inclusion in global studies.
It is essential that more research takes place on the continent and we are ready to be part of that change.”
