Kebbi First Lady Flags Off Free Diabetes and Hypertension Tests

First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris has kicked off free testing exercise on diabetes and hypertension for women, less privileged across the 21 Local Government Areas of the State and agitated for proper registration.

Idris, who flagged off the exercise at Gwandagwaji Primary Healthcare Center (PHC), Birnin Kebbi, explained that, the exercise tagged “Project 10 million”, nationwide, with the theme “Know your number, control your number”, was designed to create awareness about diabetes and hypertension in the State.

She explained that the theme of the campaign, encapsulates the essence of their mission, and stressed that by knowing one’s health metrics, “we empower ourselves to take control of our health and well-being”.

The First Lady, who was represented by the Acting Head of Service, Hajiya Aisha Usman, said that the screening of 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes during the campaign week, would enable people to detect the disease early for effective management.

According to her, ” by screening such a vast number of our citizens, we aim to identify those at risk and provide timely interventions. Provide immediate counselling and referrals for individuals with sub-optimal results: Knowledge is empowering. By offering counselling and referrals, we shall ensure individuals understand their health status and the necessary steps to improve it.”

“This will also help to link newly detected cases to the treatment facilities for ongoing care; continuous care is essential for managing these conditions. We will ensure seamless linkage to treatment facilities, providing the necessary support for ongoing management”, she said.

Idris who emphasized on the increment of public awareness about hypertension and diabetes, said that the awareness would serve as the first step towards prevention.

“Through this campaign, we aim to educate the public on the risks, prevention, and management of these conditions. There should be improvement in the data collection on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to inform health policies and planning. The Accurate data is critical for effective policy-making. This initiative will enhance our understanding of NCD prevalence, guiding our health strategies and policies”, she said

First Lady also sought for the support of the creation of hypertension and diabetes registers across states, stressed that, registration are vital tools for tracking and managing these conditions.

“We will work to establish comprehensive registers, ensuring accurate data collection and management. This project will be carried out nationwide, with Kebbi State inclusively participating in this monumental campaign. The government of Kebbi State, under the leadership of Comrade Nasiru Idris remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the health sector.”

“This campaign is a testament to that commitment, showcasing our dedication to creating a healthier future for our people. This administration will always participate in any campaign that can improve the well-being of the Kebbi State population.”

“As we embark on this journey, I extend my deepest appreciation to all stakeholders, partners, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life. Your dedication and commitment are truly commendable.”

“In conclusion, let us move forward with determination and optimism. Let us spread the message of health and well-being far and wide. Together, we can make a significant impact on the health of our citizens and ensure a brighter, healthier future for all.”

In his remark, Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad Illiyasu Bashar, represented by District Head of Diggi, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Diggi commended the First Lady of the State for organizing the free testing of diabetes and hypertension for the women and less privileged in the state, and stressed that it would go a long way to reduce the disease among the people.

Diggi added that all the four Emirates in the state are solidly behind the free testing exercise by the Governor’s wife and urged the people of the State to come out in mass for the treatment.

Earlier, Chairman of Birnin Kebbi Local Government of the State, Alhaji, M Na’Yahyah Ambursa noted that one person out of ten people do have the disease unknown to them until they were tested.

He commended the Wife of the Governor for organizing the free testing for the women, poor, orphans and vulnerable people in the State.

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By Ola Lawal