The Federal Government has announced plans to set up Blood Collection Centres in all 774 local government areas, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to ensure a steady supply of blood for medical emergencies and transfusions. This initiative was revealed in a statement by Abdullahi Haruna, Head of Media and Publicity for the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA), on Saturday in Abuja.
The statement quoted Prof. Saleh Yuguda, Director-General of the NBSA, who reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling blood shortages across the country, stating that the move will 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,” Yuguda said.
The NBSA has partnered with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to create a robust blood bank at the Corps’ medical facility, providing crucial support to security agencies during emergencies.
To kick off the initiative, the FCT will host strategically located blood collection facilities aimed at boosting blood donation rates and ensuring a reliable supply for medical purposes. “This move is expected to increase blood donation rates and ensure a steady supply of blood for medical purposes,” Yuguda explained.
The establishment of blood collection centers nationwide is a strong indication of the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access in Nigeria. As the project unfolds, citizens can expect enhanced access to blood transfusions and improved health outcomes.
NSCDC Deputy Commandant Emeka Okeke hailed the initiative, noting that it will play a critical role in addressing blood shortages and saving lives.
