Oyo State Takes The Lead: Advancing Viral Hepatitis Care Under Engr. Seyi Makinde’s Omituntun 2.0

In a recent address, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, articulated the pressing issue of viral hepatitis in Nigeria, describing it as a silent health crisis that starkly contrasts with the visible progress made in combating HIV.

She emphasized that, while efforts to reduce HIV prevalence have received significant attention, viral hepatitis poses a critical threat, affecting one in every twelve Nigerians through either Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C.

Dr. Ajetunmobi acknowledged the Oyo State Government’s proactive measures under the visionary leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde. She noted that the administration has launched a series of targeted initiatives aimed at addressing this urgent health challenge.

She pointed out that comprehensive programs have been implemented, including the vaccination of all infants against Hepatitis B and the screening of pregnant women for the virus. She stressed that these foundational steps are crucial for protecting future generations and ensuring maternal health.

The Commissioner highlighted a particularly noteworthy intervention focusing on Hepatitis C, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations such as people who inject drugs and prisoners. She explained that the Oyo State Government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Society for Family Health to launch the HCV Combination Prevention in PWID and Prisoners Project (HEPC3P). Dr. Ajetunmobi described this project as a significant advancement in the fight against viral hepatitis, stating that it builds on the existing health framework established under Engr. Makinde’s leadership.

She expressed pride in the HEPC3P Project, noting that it is groundbreaking and being implemented in only five countries worldwide, with Nigeria among them. Oyo State, alongside Gombe, is one of the only two States in Nigeria with an established Hepatitis C program. The Commissioner conveyed her optimism that this project would introduce innovative tools and strategies, significantly enhancing access to prevention and treatment for the most affected populations.
She said,

“The HEPC3P Project is groundbreaking, as it is being implemented in only five countries globally, with Nigeria being one of them. Oyo State, along with Gombe, is one of the only two States in Nigeria with an established Hepatitis C program. This project will introduce innovative tools and strategies, significantly enhancing access to prevention and treatment for the most affected populations”

Dr. Ajetunmobi attributed these achievements to the unwavering commitment of Engr. Seyi Makinde to public health and the coordinating ability of the Ministry of Health. She affirmed that their collaborative leadership not only addresses the immediate needs of those affected by viral hepatitis but also sets a precedent for future health initiatives across Nigeria.

She reiterated that through these combined efforts, Oyo State is paving the way for a healthier future. She asserted that with the right focus and resources, it is possible to tackle even the most daunting health crises. The Commissioner’s words served as a reminder of the transformative power of proactive healthcare, inspiring hope and a collective commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by viral hepatitis.