The Federal Government has announced plans to establish blood collection centres in all 774 Local Government Areas across Nigeria to ensure the availability of blood during medical emergencies and transfusions.

The spokesperson for the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA), Abdullahi Haruna, made this known in a statement on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

Haruna quoted the Director-General of NBSA, Prof. Saleh Yuguda, as reiterating the government’s commitment towards addressing blood shortages in the country, saying the initiative would save lives.

Yuguda said: “We are working tirelessly to ensure that blood needs are adequately addressed, and this initiative is a significant step towards achieving that goal.

“NBSA has partnered with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to establish a formidable blood bank at the Corp’s medical facility.

“This collaboration aims to mitigate blood shortages during medical emergencies and provide critical support to sister security agencies.”

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He noted that to commence the blood collection project, Abuja will host strategic blood collection facilities in easily accessible locations.

The NBSA boss added: “This move is expected to increase blood donation rates and ensure a steady supply of blood for medical purposes.

“The establishment of blood collection centres across Nigeria is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the country’s healthcare system.

“As the project rolls out, Nigerians should expect improved access to blood transfusions and better health outcomes.”

The statement also quoted the NSCDC as saying that the “initiative will play a vital role in addressing blood shortages and saving lives.”

The Star