Dauda R Pam, Maiduguri
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum,has directed the ministry of health to put in place measures that will offer free kidney dialysis for low income citizens and their families to reduce the burden of paying N30,000 per session.
Governor Zulum gave the directive, Tuesday, during a visit to the kidney dialysis centre at the State Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri where he also told the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to bring together relevant stakeholders in health, education and water sectors to speedily invite competent researchers to identify, study and expand any existing research into the main cause (s) of kidney diseases that seem to be on the increase in the State.
He disclosed that government will fully fund the research, hopping that findings and recommendations will guide in addressing the causes of kidney diseases rather than limiting focus on dialysis and other forms of treatment.
The Governor who witnessed the dialysis sessions being conducted by medical experts,empathized with the patients and offered them financial support.
Dr Salisu Kwaya-Bura, health commissioner in company of Chief Medical Director Hospitals Management Board and other medical experts conducted Governor Zulum round the premises and informed him that the centre has procured consumables that may last up to six months for about 3,000 patients.
The Governor,during the visit instructed the commissioner and his team,to as a matter urgency,send indigenous medical doctors on specialized kidney management trainings in reputatable health institutions in Nigeria or abroad,to enable kidney transplant in owned hospitals in the state.
According to the governor,this will not only save lives but reduce dependence on foreign medical trips and attract medical tourists to Borno State.
