LabRad Diagnostics commissioned a 160-slice CT scanner and officially launched its new and upgraded headquarters in Owerri, in a move expected to improve access to advanced medical imaging in Imo State.
The event, held on April 12, 2026, at the facility’s headquarters, brought together government officials, healthcare professionals, and industry partners.
Addressing guests, the Medical Director of Labrad Diagnostics, Dr Chinekwu Anyanwu, said the development reflects a strong commitment to improving healthcare delivery through technology and collaboration.
She stated that the facility offers a broad range of diagnostic services, including the 160-slice CT scanner, a 1.5 Tesla MRI, ultrasound, digital X-ray, and mammography. According to her, the availability of these services in one centre will support faster diagnosis and better clinical decisions.
Dr Anyanwu explained that the CT scanner delivers high-speed, high-resolution imaging that allows detailed assessment of organs and blood vessels. She noted that it supports cardiac imaging, angiography, trauma evaluation, cancer detection, and whole-body scanning.
She added that the CT scanner has minimal radiation exposure, thereby significantly reducing the risk of developing cancer from CT scan radiation exposure by more than 90% compared to regular 16-slice or 32-slice CT scan machines.
She also introduced specialised diagnostic packages designed to improve patient care across different conditions. These include oncology imaging, interventional procedures, chest and lung assessments, and vascular imaging. Additional services such as cardiac MRI, prostate imaging, and breast MRI are also available.
Representing the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, her Principal Secretary, Mr John Njoku, said the facility will help reduce the need for patients to travel outside the state for advanced investigations. He noted that improved access to diagnostic services will enhance early detection and increase chances of recovery.
He added that the initiative aligns with the healthcare agenda of Governor Hope Uzodimma, which promotes collaboration with private sector partners to improve healthcare access.
Also speaking, the representative of Crown Healthcare Nigeria, Mr Emmanuel Omachonu, said the partnership with LabRad Diagnostics has spanned several years, beginning with the installation of the first 1.5 Tesla MRI in South East Nigeria in 2024.
He stated that the installation of the 160-slice CT scanner marks another milestone, describing it as the first of its kind in the region and possibly the country. He added that the collaboration reflects a shared goal of expanding access to modern diagnostic technology.
Also Present were the Nigerian Medical Association Imo State Chairman, Dr Bartholomew Echeta, the President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri, Dr Amarachi Arunsi, and the HOD, Standards and Quality Assurance for Imo State Health Insurance agency, Dr Iwuchukwu Patric, who also represented the CEO, Dr Ewelike Uchenna
