Gombe State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, has on Tuesday led a delegation to participate in an international study tour focused on innovative models of care for hepatitis C, particularly among people who inject drugs.
This project includes countries such as Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Egypt, with Gombe State being the sole representative from Nigeria.
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Habu Dahiru emphasized the importance of this collaboration in enhancing the state’s capacity to address hepatitis C.
“Being the only state in Nigeria participating in this project is a proof to 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 is part of a global effort to eliminate hepatitis C through an integrated, evidence-based approach, targeting vulnerable groups, especially those who inject drugs. It aims to strengthen the healthcare systems in tackling hepatitis C, leveraging comprehensive study protocols, algorithms, and tailored models of care.
The study tour is designed to provide hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge on innovative hepatitis C models of care.
The Gombe State team will explore various components, including,Testing Eligibility and Screening,Clinical Aspects of HCV Testing and Treatment, Community-Based Interventions and Psychosocial Support.
Dr. Habu Dahiru expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact, stating, “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 Commissioner of Health noted that lessons learned from this project will be instrumental in developing Gombe State’s strategic framework for hepatitis C elimination, ultimately contributing to Nigeria’s broader public health goals.
This programme is in line with the ongoing healthcare reforms under the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, which prioritizes disease prevention, control, and elimination.
