Gombe State joins international effort to combat hepatitis C with innovative care models
Gombe State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, has led a delegation on an international study tour to examine innovative care models for hepatitis C, particularly among people who inject drugs.
Representing Nigeria as the sole participant in the initiative, Gombe State joins a global network that includes Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Egypt.
Dr. Dahiru highlighted the significance of the collaboration, describing it as a strategic step toward enhancing Gombe’s healthcare capabilities in addressing hepatitis C.
“Being the only state in Nigeria participating in this project is proof of our commitment to public health excellence,” he stated. “Our goal is to adopt and adapt global best practices that will allow us to eliminate hepatitis C, particularly among high-risk populations, by leveraging integrated and community-based approaches.”
The project aims to eliminate hepatitis C worldwide through an evidence-based, integrated approach targeting high-risk groups, such as those who inject drugs. It focuses on strengthening healthcare systems and includes comprehensive study protocols, diagnostic algorithms, and tailored models of care to tackle the disease effectively.
During the study tour, the Gombe delegation will explore various aspects of hepatitis C treatment, including eligibility for testing and screening, clinical testing protocols, and community-based interventions. The program also emphasizes psychosocial support to ensure holistic care for those affected.
Dr. Dahiru expressed optimism about the project’s impact, saying, “We are not only learning but also positioning Gombe State as a model for hepatitis C elimination in Nigeria. Together with our international partners, we are confident in our ability to make significant strides in combating this disease.”
The insights gained from this tour will inform Gombe State’s hepatitis C elimination strategy, supporting broader national health goals. This initiative aligns with Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s healthcare reforms, which prioritize disease prevention, control, and elimination in the state.
