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The Executive Director of the Centre for Initiative and Development (CFID), Dr. Danjuma Adda, has highlighted hepatitis as the second leading cause of death worldwide, following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adda, who doubles as the past President of the World Hepatitis Alliance, WHA, expressed concerns over the inadequate quality of equipment used in blood transfusion across the country, stating that many testing kits are ineffective in detecting the virus due to their substandard quality.
He called for collective efforts to improve hepatitis testing and treatment, urging all levels of government to invest in high-quality test kits.
Adda also emphasized the need for religious and traditional leaders to ensure that equipment used for children's circumcision is properly sterilized.
He highlighted the high mortality rate associated with viral hepatitis in Nigeria, noting that approximately 20 million Nigerians are living with the disease, with 1.3 million dying annually.
Criticizing the lack of attention given to hepatitis compared to HIV, he expressed sadness that hepatitis patients often bear the costs of treatment, diagnosis, and cures themselves, compared to persons living with HIV.
The Executive Secretary of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, TSPHCDA, Dr. Tukura Nuhu Nyigwa, represented by the Head of Medical Laboratory Services, Gemson Linus, stated that the agency is working to improve hepatitis-related services in the state's health facilities and is committed to ensuring equitable access to essential services.
He announced that the agency has been instrumental in providing vaccines and immunization to protect communities, stating that the agency is committed to ensuring equitable access to essential services, especially for vulnerable populations.
