Capacity Assessment of State-Level Genetic Laboratory Infrastructure in the North East Geopolitical Zone

Effective molecular genetic diagnostics require adequate laboratory infrastructure including equipment, reagents, trained personnel, and quality assurance systems. In North East Nigeria, the genetic laboratory capacity at state-level facilities has not been systematically assessed, limiting evidence-based investment decisions. This study conducted a capacity assessment of molecular genetic laboratory facilities across state teaching hospitals and specialist hospitals in Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, and Yobe States. A structured laboratory capacity assessment tool adapted from the WHO Laboratory Quality Stepwise Implementation (LQSI) framework was applied by trained assessors. Domains assessed included equipment availability and functionality, reagent supply chain reliability, human resource competency, biosafety compliance, quality management systems, and external quality assurance participation. Across all six states, critical equipment including real-time PCR platforms and gel electrophoresis systems was inadequate relative to service demand. Personnel with postgraduate molecular genetics training were concentrated in Borno and Adamawa. None of the assessed facilities participated in external quality assurance programmes for molecular genetics. These findings provide a baseline for investment planning and recommend prioritised equipment procurement and workforce development across North East state genetic laboratories. Keywords: laboratory capacity, molecular genetics, North East Nigeria, quality assurance, infrastructure assessment