FG donates N25m anti-snake venom to Benue

The Federal Government has provided a significant boost to Benue State's healthcare capabilities with a donation of 100 vials of Panaf Premium anti-snake venom, valued at N25 million. This intervention arrives amidst escalating concerns over snakebite incidents within the state and the prohibitive cost of essential antivenom treatment, which often places a severe financial strain on afflicted families.

The donation comes at a critical time, following recent cases, including that of a 14-year-old internally displaced boy who succumbed to a snakebite. The consignment was formally handed over at the Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services headquarters in Makurdi. This initiative is part of a broader national strategy by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to mitigate snakebite-related morbidity and mortality across Nigeria.

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The Federal Government’s intervention will complement the efforts of the Alia administration to make essential healthcare services more accessible, particularly to vulnerable residents.

Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, highlighted the donation's significance, attributing it to the proactive leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia and the ministry's commitment to forging strategic partnerships. He commended the governor's dedication to enhancing healthcare services and protecting citizens' well-being. Ogwuche also extended his appreciation to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Aliu Pate, for his ministry's responsive action to the state's appeal for assistance.

Ogwuche stated that the Federal Government's support would complement the state administration's efforts to make vital healthcare services more accessible, particularly for vulnerable populations. The availability of the antivenom is expected to alleviate the financial pressure on families and ensure victims receive timely treatment. The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Cephas Hough, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the donation would bolster the state's response capacity and ease the treatment burden on residents. He specifically praised the Commissioner's proactive engagement, which was instrumental in securing this vital aid.

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The donation would strengthen the state’s capacity to respond to snakebite cases while easing the treatment burden on affected residents.