Nigeria's Federal Government donates N25m anti-snake venom to Benue

The Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has donated 100 vials of Panaf Premium Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) to the Benue State Government. Valued at over N25 million, the consignment is intended to improve access to life-saving treatment and reduce the financial burden on snakebite victims and their families.

Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, received the donation in Makurdi. He noted that the intervention would specifically benefit vulnerable residents who might otherwise struggle to afford the medicine. The state ministry has committed to ensuring the proper documentation, storage, and rational distribution of the venom to guarantee it reaches those in genuine need.

The donation follows a request from the Benue State government and is part of a broader federal effort to reduce deaths and illnesses associated with snakebites across Nigeria. Officials noted that the move highlights the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments in addressing critical public health challenges.