The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to establish Blood Collection Centres in all 774 local government areas across the country, including the Federal Capital Territory.
This is in a bid to address the perennial issue of blood shortages during medical emergencies and transfusions,
According to a statement released by the Head, Media and Publicity, National Blood Service Agency, Abdullahi Haruna, on Saturday in Abuja, the initiative is aimed at ensuring the availability of blood during critical moments.
Prof. Saleh Yuguda, the Director-General, National Blood Service Agency (NBSA), emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing blood shortages in the country.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that blood needs are adequately addressed, and this initiative is a significant step towards achieving that goal,” he said.
Yuguda highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “This will save lives, and we are committed to making it a reality.” He also revealed that the NBSA has partnered with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to establish a robust blood bank at the Corp’s medical facility.
The collaboration, according to Yuguda, aims to mitigate blood shortages during medical emergencies and provide critical support to sister security agencies.
“We are working together to ensure that our medical facilities are equipped to handle emergencies, and this partnership is a testament to our commitment to saving lives,” he added.