…As National Blood Service Commission seeks media collaboration
National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Chris Isiguzo has said that the lessons of COVID-19 pandemic which he described as ‘health terrorism’ must not be allowed to escape from the memories of Nigerians.
Isiguzo said that it was a lesson that taught the world particularly Nigeria a lot of lessons as it was caught unawares and bare thus, the dire need to take health issues more seriously by increasing investments in the sector.
This was as the National Blood Service Commission said it is determined to collaborate with the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the media towards creating a national and effective public awareness for availability, proper coordination and regulation of blood donation and transfusion in the country.
Director General of the Commission, Dr. Omale Joseph Amedu, who gave the hint when he led members of his management team on a visit to the national leadership of the NUJ led by Comrade Chris Isiguzo, said that public awareness on blood as a critical system has become so important owing to the fact that it takes care of the security of life.
Dr. Amedu noted that even though blood gives life, it is also one of the most dangerous thing in the body system is not properly administered or if transfused without proper check to ensure it meets expected standard.
He said that taking into consideration the critical role blood plays in the health system, the 9th National Assembly deemed it fit to enact an Act for a National Blood Service Commission with the task regulate, coordinate and ensure availability of blood products.
Amedu further said that there is the need for the federal government to realise and ensure the availability of effective blood service in every part of the country to meet the needs of Nigerians.
In the words of Amedu; “There must be effective and proper coordination of Blood service and I need to add here that the media is keyin advancing the cause of availability”.
Speaking in turn, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo said that the health sector remains a critical part of the national life which must be given the attention it deserves.
The NUJ President also said that Nigerians must ensure that key issues that affect Nigerians particularly health, education, provisions of infrastructures are placed on the front burner of national discuss and not allow politicians to decide for the people at all times.
Isiguzo said; “The issue of blood donation and transfusion should be seen as a national assignment and major interest that must be taken seriously. It is germane and important and should be taken with all seriousness”.
