Organ transplantation: Nigeria launches new ethical standards

 

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, on Thursday in Abuja, stated that the new framework underscored the government’s commitment to saving lives through ethical organ transplantation procedures.

Salako, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr Jimoh Salaudeen, emphasised that organ transplantation was more than a medical procedure.

“It is a life-saving intervention that offers renewed hope to patients battling end-stage organ failure.

“For many individuals, organ transplantation is not just a treatment but a second chance at life.

How Nigeria’s health insurance services is getting poorer – Survey

“This document, validated on Nov. 13, 2024, sets the foundation for safe, ethical, and transparent organ and tissue transplantation services in Nigeria,” he said.

He further noted that the new guidelines were developed through extensive collaboration with healthcare professionals, legal experts, professional bodies, media organisations, and other key stakeholders.

“The guidelines address critical areas such as donor protection, transplant patient safety, ethical practices, and compliance mechanisms.

 

“The document is designed to build trust in Nigeria’s organ transplantation system by ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices,” he added.

Acknowledging the challenges facing organ transplantation in Nigeria, such as unethical organ harvesting and the need for informed consent, the minister stressed the importance of public awareness, infrastructural development, and strong regulatory enforcement.

 

“This is not just a policy; it is a commitment to life. However, for these guidelines to be effective, we must bridge gaps in public education, medical infrastructure, and regulatory compliance.

“That is why we are mobilising stakeholders including health professionals, policymakers, and civil society to foster a culture where organ donation is both understood and ethically managed,” he said.

Salako commended the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standards Committee (NTHISC) and all stakeholders involved in developing the guidelines, urging them to work together to ensure effective implementation.

“This is a milestone in our mission to improve healthcare and save lives. But it is also the beginning of a new journey.

“Together, let us build a future where organ transplantation in Nigeria becomes a beacon of hope, not a source of fear,” he added.

The Chairman of the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standards Committee (NTHISC), Prof. Phillip Abiodun, described the launch of the new standards and guidelines as a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Speaking at the official unveiling of the regulatory framework, Abiodun noted that the document represented a firm commitment to ethical medical practices, safeguarding lives, and restoring public trust.

“For too long, organ transplantation in Nigeria has been plagued by irregularities, exploitation, and a lack of robust regulatory frameworks.

“Today, we take decisive steps toward changing the narrative and building a system that prioritises transparency, accountability, and equity,” he said.

Abiodun emphasised that the NTHISC, established under the National Health Act of 2014, was responsible for regulating tertiary healthcare facilities across the country.

He noted that ensuring ethical and internationally aligned organ transplantation services was one of its core responsibilities.

“The new guidelines cover key aspects of organ transplantation, including ethical considerations, informed consent requirements, donor protection mechanisms, and measures to prevent exploitation.

“These provisions align with global standards while considering Nigeria’s unique challenges,” he emphasised.

Abiodun highlighted key reforms for the next phase, which include; all healthcare institutions performing organ transplants must obtain certification to ensure only qualified facilities handle such delicate procedures.

“Strict oversight mechanisms will be established to ensure adherence to the guidelines, with legal consequences for non-compliance.

“The initiative has received backing from the House of Representatives Committee on Human Rights, with lawmakers pledging to strengthen regulations on organ transplantation.

“A national database will be created to track donations and transplants while maintaining transparency.

“Nigerians will be sensitised on the importance of organ donation and the safeguards in place to protect donors and recipients.”

He also stressed the need for cultural and religious reorientation regarding organ donation.

“Many myths have discouraged people from donating organs, but we must begin to see it differently.

“You can give life, sight, or health to another person even after your death. That is why we must encourage initiatives like including ‘organ donor’ status on driver’s licenses,” he said.

Abiodun called for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the success of the initiative, emphasising that non-compliance would not be tolerated.

“As the saying goes, ‘two hands make lifting easier.’ Our collective effort will ensure that organ transplantation in Nigeria is ethical, transparent, and accessible to those in need,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, Rep. Abiola Makinde, reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to safeguarding Nigerians’ rights in organ transplantation through legislative support.

Makinde commended the initiative as timely and long overdue, particularly appreciating the emphasis on informed consent in organ transplantation.

“Informed consent is crucial, and I appreciate its emphasis here today. The protection of human rights will always be our priority,” he said.

He assured the Federal Ministry of Health of the House Committee’s commitment to collaboration, especially in addressing violations and human rights concerns related to organ transplantation.

Acknowledging the global challenge of organ trafficking, he pledged legislative support to combat such illicit activities.

“You can count on us in the House of Representatives to remain active partners in ensuring ethical organ transplantation practices.

“If there are necessary amendments to existing laws, we are ready to work with stakeholders to strengthen the legal framework,” he added.

He also thanked Abiodun for the invitation, noting that the House of Representatives would support any legislative efforts to regulate organ transplantation in Nigeria.

“We are willing to propose amendments where needed, ensuring appropriate legal consequences and penalties for violators.

“The House of Reps will not hesitate to present the bill before the House and work towards securing presidential assent,” he assured.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by key stakeholders in the health sector, marking a significant step toward establishing ethical and standardised organ transplantation services in Nigeria.