The Anambra State Government, on Thursday, distributed 42 motorcycles to its officers to track cases of Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer across the 21 local government areas of the state.
During the distribution event in Awka, Dr Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health, emphasised the importance of reaching underserved and remote communities to ensure early detection and treatment of these diseases.
Obidike who was represented by Mrs Obiageli Uchebo, the Permanent Secretary, urged Tuberculosis/Leprosy Supervisors (TBLS) and their assistants to effectively utilize the motorcycles to fulfill their mission of improving grassroots healthcare.
“These motorcycles will enable you to access the nooks and crannies of our communities to identify and treat infected individuals.
“This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat these diseases and improve timely medical services.”
Also speaking, Dr Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, the Programme Manager for Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Management in Anambra State, expressed gratitude to the Global Fund and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme for their support.
He highlighted Nigeria’s alarming TB statistics, noting that the country ranks 6th globally and 1st in Africa for TB burden.
“This donation will enhance case finding and treatment efforts, helping to significantly reduce the prevalence of TB, leprosy, and Buruli ulcer in the state,” Chukwulobelu stated.
Mrs Amaka Onyema, one of the supervisors, pledged to intensify surveillance and case detection efforts, ensuring that the provided resources are effectively utilized to combat these diseases.
