News
High Cost of Hepatitis Treatment Leaves Millions of Nigerians at Risk of Liver Diseas
By Rukevwe Odeh
Millions of Nigerians living with viral hepatitis face an increasing risk of severe liver complications as the high cost of diagnosis and treatment continues to prevent many from accessing adequate healthcare. Health experts have warned that limited access to affordable care, coupled with overstretched medical facilities, is worsening the country’s hepatitis burden.
Speaking ahead of this year’s World Hepatitis Day, medical professionals and public health advocates disclosed that more than 20 million Nigerians are estimated to be living with hepatitis B or C. However, over 80 percent of those infected remain unaware of their status because they have never been tested.
According to the experts, delayed diagnosis often results in patients seeking medical help only after developing advanced liver conditions such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. They stressed that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to reduce deaths linked to the disease.
The stakeholders expressed concern that the cost of laboratory tests, antiviral medications and long-term medical care has placed treatment beyond the reach of many Nigerians. They added that inadequate healthcare infrastructure, shortage of specialists and poor funding continue to hinder efforts to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat.
They urged governments at all levels to expand access to free or subsidised hepatitis screening and treatment, strengthen public awareness campaigns and improve vaccination programmes, particularly for hepatitis B.
Health professionals also encouraged Nigerians to undergo routine screening, especially those considered to be at higher risk of infection, noting that prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce complications and improve survival rates.
They reaffirmed that greater investment in healthcare services, wider access to testing and affordable treatment would be crucial in reducing the growing burden of hepatitis and preventing thousands of avoidable deaths across the country.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
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