The Federal Government has announced plans to establish Blood Collection Centres in all 774 local government areas, including the FCT, to ensure availability of blood during medical emergencies and transfusions.
Abdullahi Haruna, Head of Media and Publicity at the National Blood Services Agency (NBSA), made this known in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.
The statement quoted Saleh Yuguda, director general of NBSA, as reiterating the government's commitment to addressing the blood shortage in the country as the initiative would save lives.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that blood needs are adequately met, and this initiative is an important step toward achieving that goal.
“NBSA has partnered with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to establish a formidable blood bank at the Corps’ medical facility.
“This collaboration aims to mitigate blood shortages during medical emergencies and provide critical support to sister security agencies,” he said.
He explained that to kick-start the blood collection project, the FCT will host strategic blood collection facilities at easily accessible locations.
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“This measure is expected to increase blood donation rates and ensure a constant supply of blood for medical purposes.
“The establishment of blood collection centres across Nigeria is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the country’s healthcare system.
“As the project develops, Nigerians can look forward to improved access to blood transfusions and better health outcomes,” he said.
The statement also revealed that Deputy Commander Emeka Okeke of the NSCDC said: “This initiative will play a vital role in addressing the blood shortage and saving lives.”
(YAYA)