The Benue State Government has received Federal Government’s approval to run four dedicated snakebite treatment centres across its three senatorial districts.
This clearance from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will make life-saving care far more accessible for local residents.
The designated treatment centres are located at general hospitals in Katsina-Ala, Gboko, and Otukpo, alongside the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi.
Health Commissioner Dr. Paul Ogwuche praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for prioritizing rural health and easing the medical burden on farming communities.
Ogwuche also thanked the federal ministry and Health Minister Prof. Ali Pate for partnering with the state on this critical health challenge.
Through the national envenoming programme, these four facilities will receive government-procured anti-snake venom to keep care affordable for victims.
Healthcare workers at the selected hospitals will also undergo specialized training to handle urgent snakebite cases more effectively.
Ogwuche stressed that the initiative is vital for rural families, who often face tragic loss of life and heavy financial hardship from snakebites.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to making sure no Benue resident dies or goes broke trying to access essential treatment.
