FG to take over snakebite hospital in Gombe
The federal government has announced plans to take over the Snakebite Treatment and Research Centre in Kaltungo, Gombe State, to enhance training and local production of anti-snake venom. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this at the weekend during an inspection visit to the centre as part of […]
The federal government has announced plans to take over the Snakebite Treatment and Research Centre in Kaltungo, Gombe State, to enhance training and local production of anti-snake venom.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this at the weekend during an inspection visit to the centre as part of his working tour of the state.
He highlighted the regional and international importance of the centre, especially during farming seasons when snakebite incidents are most common.
“This centre treats between 2,000 and 3,000 patients annually, many of whom come not only from Gombe but also from across the North East and neighbouring countries.
“The Federal Government, in partnership with Gombe State, will formalize arrangements to expand its role, not only as a treatment hub but also for training, research and, ultimately, local production of anti-snake venom,” Prof. Pate said.
Speaking after commissioning a new Accident and Emergency (A&E) unit at the General Hospital, Kaltungo, the minister commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for spearheading the transformation of the state’s health sector, describing it as a model for health system strengthening in Nigeria.
Prof. Pate lauded Governor Yahaya for comprehensive health reforms spanning primary healthcare revitalisation, hospital upgrades, human resource development, and the establishment of specialised medical centres.
The minister also praised the recent approval of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers, describing it as a bold step toward retaining skilled personnel.
On his part, Governor Yahaya attributed the success to teamwork and collaboration.
“All the credit goes to the team. Infrastructure alone is not enough, which is why we prioritized motivating our health workers so that all facilities, from primary to tertiary, can function effectively,” he said.