The Kano State Government has disclosed that more than 1.2 million residents are currently living with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), describing it as a major but preventable public health threat.
This revelation was made by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, during a press briefing to commemorate the 2025 World Hepatitis Day themed "Hepatitis: Let's Break the Silence."
Dr. Yusuf warned that if left untreated, HBV could lead to life-threatening complications including liver cirrhosis and cancer, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment.
Government's Response to the Hepatitis Crisis
In a proactive move to combat the disease, the Kano State Government has released N95 million for a new initiative called "HepFree Mothers, Healthy Babies," which was launched in February 2025.
The programme specifically targets the elimination of mother-to-child transmission, which accounts for up to 80% of HBV cases. It offers free screening and treatment to pregnant women, along with immediate vaccination for newborns at birth.
"Kano is the first state in Nigeria to independently launch and fund the Triple Elimination strategy for HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis," Dr. Yusuf noted with pride.
The commissioner further revealed that the state has proposed an additional N135 million to expand the programme and procure more medical supplies, aiming to meet the 2030 global hepatitis elimination target set by the World Health Organization.
Health experts have consistently emphasized that hepatitis B is preventable through vaccination and safe practices, yet it remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria and many parts of Africa.
The Kano State initiative represents a significant step toward addressing this silent epidemic that affects millions of Nigerians, with particular focus on breaking the cycle of transmission from mothers to newborns.
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