Taraba, firm move against hepatitis

The Taraba government is partnering with Roche Products Limited to screen and vaccinate hepatitis patients in the state.

According to the memorandum of understanding (MOU), Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku had committed N1.3 billion to the project.

During the kick-off at the weekend at the state specialist hospital in Jalingo, reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritise the health needs of the people.

He said: “ A healthy citizen, just like a peaceful atmosphere, is paramount for development of any society. Government is serious about ensuing good health for the people of Taraba State and this is why we are taking a bold stand against hepatitis.”

The exercise, according to him, would provide free screening and vaccination for our people and we will also treat those who are positive.”

The governor noted that the move was aimed at alleviating “the suffering of persons affected by the disease.”

Ishaku assured that in the future the entire project “will be scaled up,” adding: “With the ultimate target being to provide preventive, diagnostic and treatment services free of charge to all in need and as close to their homes as possible.”

The Head, Sub-Sahara Africa for Roche, Markus Gemuend, said his company’s identification with the programme followed the commitment of the state government.