By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Anambra State Government, on Thursday, handed out 42 motorcycles to officers tasked with tracking cases of Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer in the state’s 21 local government areas.
At the distribution event in Awka, Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health, stressed the importance of reaching remote and underserved communities for the early detection and treatment of these diseases.
Represented by Mrs. Obiageli Uchebo, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Obidike urged the Tuberculosis/Leprosy Supervisors (TBLS) and their teams to make the best use of these motorcycles to improve healthcare at the grassroots level.
“These motorcycles will enable you to access the nooks and crannies of our communities to identify and treat infected individuals,” said Obidike. “This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat these diseases and improve timely medical services.”
Dr. Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, the Programme Manager for Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Management in Anambra, expressed appreciation for the support from the Global Fund and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s troubling position in global TB statistics, noting that the country ranks 6th worldwide and 1st in Africa for the TB burden. He emphasized that the motorcycles would greatly aid in enhancing efforts to reduce the prevalence of these diseases in Anambra.
Mrs. Amaka Onyema, one of the supervisors, vowed to intensify case detection and surveillance efforts, ensuring the resources are used effectively in the fight against these diseases.
