The Kano State Government has launched a free Hepatitis B treatment programme targeting pregnant women and newborns as part of efforts to reduce the spread of the virus and protect future generations.
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The initiative, tagged “HepFree Mothers, Healthy Babies,” is part of a N95 million intervention aimed at eliminating mother-to-child transmission of the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). The programme offers free screening and treatment for expectant mothers, as well as vaccination for their babies at birth.
Announcing the development during a press briefing to mark the 2025 World Hepatitis Day, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, revealed that over 1.2 million residents in Kano are currently living with Hepatitis B.
He warned that if left untreated, the virus could lead to serious health complications such as liver cirrhosis and cancer. However, he stressed that Hepatitis B is preventable through awareness, timely vaccination, and access to proper medical care.
Dr. Yusuf also noted that Kano has become the first state in Nigeria to independently roll out the Triple Elimination Strategy targeting HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis to improve maternal and child health.
In addition to the ongoing programme, the government has proposed another N135 million to expand the campaign and procure more medical supplies. This move is part of Kano’s broader strategy to meet the World Health Organization’s target of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
The Health Commissioner called on residents to take advantage of the free services and support the government’s efforts by getting tested and spreading awareness about the dangers of Hepatitis B.
