The Federal Government has announced plans to establish Blood Collection Centres across all 774 local government areas, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to address the critical need for blood during medical emergencies and for routine transfusions.
This initiative was revealed by Abdullahi Haruna, Head of Media and Publicity for the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA), in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja. The Director-General of NBSA, Prof. Saleh Yuguda, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare through this effort, which aims to tackle blood shortages nationwide.
“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, highlighting the importance of ensuring a steady supply of blood to save lives during medical emergencies.
As part of the initiative, the NBSA has partnered with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to establish a comprehensive blood bank at the Corps’ medical facility. This collaboration aims to provide a reliable source of blood not only for medical emergencies but also to support other security agencies in need.
In a pilot phase, the FCT will be home to strategic blood collection facilities located in easily accessible areas, marking the beginning of the national rollout. The government believes that placing these centres in every local government will increase donation rates and create a steady and reliable blood supply for medical purposes.
Prof. Yuguda emphasized that the establishment of these centres is a clear testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing the healthcare system in Nigeria. As the project expands, it is expected to improve access to life-saving blood transfusions and contribute to better health outcomes across the country.
In support of the project, Deputy Commandant Emeka Okeke of the NSCDC noted, “This initiative will play a vital role in addressing blood shortages and saving lives.” The collaboration with the NSCDC is expected to bolster the success of the blood bank network, providing critical support for communities and improving emergency response.
As the Federal Government takes these bold steps, Nigerians are encouraged to participate in blood donation drives, ensuring that the country’s healthcare system is better equipped to handle emergencies and save lives.
