By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The Yobe State Government under Governor Mai Mala Buni, has revealed an annual expenditure of N360 million on free dialysis for residents battling kidney disease in the state.
This was disclosed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Malam Wali, during a visit by Dr. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, Director of the Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC), to mark the completion of the first phase of a statewide kidney disease research initiative.
Dr. Maina, who also serves as the Special Adviser on Science, Research, and Innovation, stated that over 2,000 blood and urine samples and 500 environmental samples, including soil, water, fish, and vegetables, were collected in Bade and Damaturu Local Government Areas.
This effort is part of Yobe state government’s commitment to tackling the alarming rise in kidney failure cases in the state. The governor had earlier led a delegation to the London School of Hygiene and other institutions in England to kickstart this critical research project.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Gana Lawan Muhammad, hailed the state government’s dedication to funding health research as a significant dividend of democracy.
He commended Governor Buni for prioritizing healthcare and research, a sector often neglected by many governments.
Dr. Baba Waru Goni, Chief Medical Director of Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, lauded the government for its continued support of healthcare initiatives.
He described the administration’s investment in kidney disease research and treatment as evidence of its commitment to the well-being of the people.
This comprehensive research initiative highlights the Yobe State Government’s proactive approach to addressing public health challenges through science, innovation, and visionary leadership.
