By Mala Abdulazeez
The Yobe State Government spends approximately N360 million annually to provide free dialysis for residents battling kidney disease, underscoring its commitment to public health and life-saving care.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Malam Wali, revealed this during a visit to Dr. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, Director of the Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC), following the successful completion of the first phase of a groundbreaking kidney disease research initiative.
Dr. Maina, who also serves as the Special Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Science, Research, and Innovation, explained that researchers collected over 2,000 blood and urine samples, alongside 500 environmental samples — including soil, water, fish, and vegetables — from Bade and Damaturu Local Government Areas. The research aims to investigate the root causes of the rising kidney failure cases in the state.
“This initiative reflects the state government’s proactive approach to tackling the surge in kidney disease,” Dr. Maina stated, emphasizing the value of science and research in shaping public health policies.
State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Gana Lawan Muhammad, commended the administration’s unwavering dedication to funding healthcare research. He highlighted Governor Buni’s leadership as a beacon of progress, especially in a sector often overlooked by many governments.
“This level of commitment to both treatment and research is rare, and it speaks volumes about Governor Buni’s vision for a healthier Yobe State,” Dr. Gana noted.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Baba Waru Goni, Chief Medical Director of Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, praised the government’s continuous support for healthcare initiatives. He described the investment in kidney disease research and treatment as a testament to the administration’s focus on improving residents’ well-being.
“This is more than just policy — it’s about saving lives and building a future where people can access quality healthcare without financial strain,” Dr. Goni said.
The comprehensive research initiative, coupled with the free dialysis program, showcases Yobe State Government’s dedication to addressing public health challenges through science, innovation, and people-centered governance.
With sustained efforts like these, Yobe is positioning itself as a leader in health research and care, offering hope to thousands of patients and setting a powerful example for other states to follow.
