FULafia and Nasarawa State Government Partner to Fight Hepatitis

The Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) has joined forces with the Nasarawa State Ministry of Health to combat the widespread health threat of hepatitis. This partnership was announced during a significant event held on World Hepatitis Day, aimed at raising awareness about the disease.

Chairing the event, Vice-Chancellor of FULafia, Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman, emphasized the importance of educating the public about viral hepatitis, its prevention, testing, and treatment. He stated that the campaign seeks to reduce the stigma and discrimination often associated with the disease. The 2024 World Hepatitis Day theme, "IT'S TIME FOR ACTION," underscores the urgency of this initiative.

The celebration took place in Gandu, a community neighboring the university, reflecting FULafia's commitment to serving local populations. The program was organized by the FULafia Centre for Community Service, along with the departments of Medical Laboratory Science and Social Work, in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Ministry of Health.

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Professor Abdul Rahman noted that hepatitis poses a serious public health risk, contributing to approximately 1.3 million deaths annually. He expressed concern over Nigeria's health indicators, highlighting a life expectancy of just 56.05 years, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (2024). He called on the government to increase funding for hepatitis research, improve access to treatment, enhance awareness, and promote local and global partnerships for knowledge sharing and best practices.

Dr. Shekwonu Gaza Dogara, Commissioner for the Nasarawa State Ministry of Health, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Damina John Ali, extended gratitude to FULafia and other agencies for the campaign. He urged everyone to get tested for hepatitis and to vaccinate if found negative, noting that vaccinations were provided as part of the initiative.

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Mr. Emmanuel Ukeye, representing the World Health Organization (WHO), commended the collaboration between FULafia and the Nasarawa State Ministry of Health, calling for increased advocacy to eliminate viral hepatitis.

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Professor Samson Dugga, Chairman of the FULafia Centre for Community Service, praised the efforts of the organizers and participants in the road walk to commemorate World Hepatitis Day. He noted that such initiatives are vital for educating communities about the dangers of hepatitis.

The event included hepatitis B and C testing, counseling sessions, and vaccinations, attracting several dignitaries, including Dr. Ibrahim Adamu Alhassan, Director of Public Health, Dr. Ruth Bello, Director-General of the Nasarawa State AIDS Control Agency (NASACA), and Dr. Peter Attahiru, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Nasarawa State Chapter. 

This collaborative effort aims not only to raise awareness but also to provide essential resources to combat hepatitis in the community effectively.