By Lawrence Duya, Abuja.
National Coordinator of National Blood Transfusion Service, Mr. Omale Joseph, with Stakeholders at the Launching of NBTS Ten-Year Strategic Plan in Abuja
Nigeria’s National Blood Transfusion Service, NBTS, has reassured Nigerians of adequate and qualitative blood for all.
The National Coordinator of National Blood Transfusion Service, Mr. Omale Joseph, made this disclosure during a stakeholder meeting and launching of NBTS Ten-Year Strategic Plan in Abuja.
Mr. Omale stated that since he assumed office as the National Coordinator of NBTS, many partners have been engaged within the five months of his appointment.
Lack of collection facilities, storage, limited awareness, cultural myths / misconception and COVID-19 are among the challenges faced by NBTS, according to Mr. Omale.
As part of the strategic plan, 1000,000 units of blood is needed for Nigeria in the next two years.
Data from world Health Organisation, WHO, indicates that about 112.5 million units are collected globally annually.
60 per cent of the over 200 million of Nigerians are within 15 – 60 years of age which is the potential blood donors.
Currently, 25,000 units of blood are obtained from volunteers which is less than 5% of potential blood donors.
Mr. Omale said that NBTS targets 100 per cent voluntary non-remunerated blood donors from 1 million Nigerians.
“The cost of this strategic plan is estimated at #42.3 billion ($112 million) over the next 10 years.” He noted.
Highlight of the event was the launch of NBTS Ten-Year Strategic Plan.
