In order to ensure the availability of blood for transfusion, the Federal Government has concluded arrangements to establish blood collection centres in all the 774 council areas in the country, including the FCT.
This, according to Abdullahi Haruna, Head of Media and Publicity, National Blood Service Agency (NBSA), will ensure the availability of blood in an emergency situation. He made this known through a press statement in Abuja on Saturday.
The statement quoted Professor Saleh Yuguda, the Director-General, NBSA, as reiterating the government’s commitment towards addressing blood shortages in the country as the initiative would save lives.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that blood needs are adequately addressed, and this initiative is a significant step towards achieving that goal.
“NBSA has partnered with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to establish a formidable blood bank at the Corp’s 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 kickstart the blood collection project, the FCT will host strategic blood collection facilities in easily accessible locations.
“This move is expected to increase blood donation rates and ensure a steady 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 rolls out, Nigerians should expect improved access to blood transfusions and better health outcomes,” he said.
The statement also quoted Deputy Commandant Emeka Okeke of the NSCDC as saying: “This initiative will play a vital role in addressing blood shortages and saving lives.”
