By JKNewsMedia
STAKEHOLDERS ARE set to validate a revised National Blood Policy (NBP) aimed at ensuring a safer, more sustainable and readily available blood supply across Nigeria.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) said the policy review is necessary to address emerging challenges in blood collection, processing, storage and distribution, while improving standards across the country’s blood transfusion services.
This is coming for the first time in 20 years to tackle the country’s blood supply gap.
The revised framework will strengthen donor mobilisation, integrate blood banks into a digital national system and enable blood to be traced from donor to recipient.
With only about 30% of national blood demand currently met, the National Blood Service Agency plans nationwide blood drives, alongside community and media mobilisation, while haemovigilance will monitor the safety of both donors and recipients.
Director-General of the NBSA, Professor Saleh Yuguda, said the validation process is a critical step towards building a coordinated national blood system that prioritises safety, quality and adequate availability.
He also said the process would encourage stronger stakeholder commitment to voluntary blood donation.
According to the NBSA, the stakeholder meeting brings together experts, government institutions and other partners to review the revised policy and ensure that it reflects current realities, best practices and the needs of Nigerians requiring blood and blood products.
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