FG donates anti-snakebite venom, consumables to Kaltungo

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The Federal Government has donated anti-snakebite venom worth millions of Naira to the National Snakebite Research and Referral Centre in Kaltungo, Gombe State.

This significant gesture aims to tackle the pressing issue of snakebites in the area, benefiting Gombe and other neighbouring states that rely on the facility.

The donation followed a formal request made by the Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Muhammadu, to the Federal Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, during a recent visit to the Minister’s office in Abuja.

The delivery of the life-saving drugs and other consumables was facilitated by the Chairperson of Kaltungo Local Government, Hon. Iliya Suleiman, who took responsibility for transporting the supplies from Abuja to the Centre.

During the official handover of the items in Kaltungo over the weekend, Hon. Iliya Suleiman expressed his gratitude on behalf of the local government and hospital staff.

He emphasised the critical timing of the support, noting that the hospital was in desperate need of these resources.

“I recently visited the hospital, and the plight of the patients was heartbreaking. This assistance from the federal government came at a time when it was most needed,” he said.

Hon. Suleiman also conveyed his appreciation, stating, “We are grateful to the Federal Government, Minister of Health Dr. Ali Pate, the Gombe State Ministry of Health, and Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for their unwavering support to the hospital.”

He further assured that Kaltungo Local Government would continue to provide support to the hospital and acknowledged the dedication of its staff in caring for patients from across the country.

The Chief Medical Officer of the Centre, Dr Nicolas Armani Hamman, thanked the Mai Kaltungo for his efforts in securing the much-needed items. He explained that the centre receives an average of six to seven snakebite cases daily, and the new supplies would significantly enhance patient care.

Dr Hamman stressed the importance of timely treatment in managing snakebite cases, which can otherwise lead to severe complications or death.

After the delivery, the Mai Kaltungo visited the hospital wards to check on patients and offered prayers for their swift recovery. He expressed hope that the treatment would ease the victims’ suffering and improve their chances of survival.

Local authorities and health professionals continue to advise the public, particularly farmers, to remain vigilant during this season when snakes are commonly found in agricultural fields and equipment.

The provision of free medication is expected to alleviate the burden on the hospital and ensure improved care for snakebite victims in the region.

This intervention highlights the importance of collaboration between local, state, and federal authorities in addressing urgent health challenges in underserved areas.