By Samson Yaki
Bingham University, Karu, in Nasarawa State, has disclosed that the Zankli Research Centre of the University has been activated and approved by the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) as a Centre for the testing of Covid-19 designated for Nasarawa State.
The Director of the Centre, Dr. John Bimba, said the Research Centre was activated to step up the fight against Covid-19 in Nigeria, especially in Nasarawa State.
According to him, the Research Centre uses GeneXpert Xpress Cartridges that has the capacity to test and produce result samples of Coronavirus disease in one hour.
“We have a maximum capacity of 300 tests per day and that each sample could be ready in one hour.
“We use GeneXpert Xpress Cartridges that has the capacity to give results in less than an hour.” He said.
Bimba said the Zankli Research Center has been in existence for TB, HIV and other research works, noting that the Centre is an Out-patient center for test of samples only and does not have bed capacity.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State,Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, has commended the Management of Bingham University for dedicating the Research Centre for this important service to humanity.
Dr. Akabe who also doubles as the Chairman, Nasarawa State Task Force on Covid-19, expressed satisfaction with the standard of the Centre.
He assured the Management of the University the cooperation of Nasarawa State Government in the fight against the dreaded Covid-19. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof.W.B Qurix,OFR appreciated the Deputy Governor for partnering the University over the years.
The Vice Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A.B Adelaiye, stated that the Centre has been involved in TB and HIV research among others and Uses GeneXpert Xpress Cartridges that has the capacity to give results on Covid-19 testing in less than an hour.
He assured the Deputy Governor that the University will continue to support efforts of the state government in availing its services to the people of the State.