The Nigerian Federal Government had on Friday remarked that the continuous use of rapid test kits to screen blood meant for blood transfusion in Nigeria was unethical.
Prof. Ali Pate, the coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare made this disclosure on Friday at the 2023 National Blood Donor Day Ministerial Press Briefing in FCT Abuja.
Prof. Pate, who was represented by the ministry’s Director and Head, Teaching Hospital Division, Dr. Anuma Ogbonna, had encouraged all the stakeholders to certify that they completely adhered with the government’s decision.”
Pate also revealed that the government had begun registering blood service firms, in addition to celebrating blood donors across the country.
He highlighted the need to ensure an unobstructed national access to safe blood and blood products.
Pate had said,
“Our effort is in line with the pledge of President Bola Tinubu, to ensure quality health outcomes and to deliver on his promise of Renewed Hope Agenda for every Nigerian.”
“Thus, an effectively governed blood ecosystem which certified the proper coordination of all activities related to blood collection, testing, processing, storage, and distribution at all levels is essential to promoting uniform implementation of standards and consistency in the quality and safety of blood and blood products.”
To ensure absolute quality of the blood, blood products, and services to all residents in line with the National Health Plan, the commission has begun registering all hospital blood banks and blood establishments nationwide.
