Our Reporter
In commemoration of the 2025 World Hepatitis Day, Albarka Comprehensive Medicals, in collaboration with renowned public health advocate Dr. Bala Maijama’a Wunti, conducted a free Hepatitis B screening exercise for residents of underserved communities in Bauchi State.
The outreach, held on July 28 in Wunti and Gwallaga Ta Gabbas wards, drew hundreds of participants and underscored a growing public interest in preventive healthcare.
Director of Albarka Comprehensive Medicals, Dr. Isah Adamu, stressed the importance of early detection in curbing the spread of the disease.
“Hepatitis B is a silent killer that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Early diagnosis gives people a fighting chance,” he said.
“We launched this initiative to bridge the gap in access to quality healthcare, especially in communities that are often neglected.”
Dr. Adamu explained that the exercise was not just about testing, but also about raising awareness.
“We provided free counseling and education to help people understand the risks, modes of transmission, and prevention strategies. Many participants left not only with their results but with knowledge that could save their lives or those of their families.”
He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to reaching vulnerable populations.
“Healthcare must go beyond hospital walls. It must reach the streets, homes, and marketplaces—where people live and work. That’s where real impact happens.”
Commending the partnership with Dr. Bala Maijama’a Wunti, Dr. Adamu noted that collaboration remains critical to long-term success.
“Working with committed individuals like Dr. Bala helps amplify our reach. Together, we aim to replicate this initiative in more communities across Bauchi and beyond.”
He added that the outreach is part of a broader, sustainable plan to eliminate Hepatitis B as a public health threat through follow-up care, vaccination drives, and continued community engagement.
Community leaders welcomed the initiative with gratitude.
The ward head of Wunti, Malam Sani Shehu Wunti, described it as “a turning point in the community’s health journey.”
“For years, our people lacked access to basic health services. This screening has brought care closer and enlightened many about a disease they never knew existed,” he said.
Alhaji Musa Jibrin of Gwallaga Ta Gabbas called on other health stakeholders to emulate the model.
“This is a blessing. We thank Albarka and Dr. Bala for thinking of us. Now our youths, women, and elders understand the importance of knowing their health status.”
Several beneficiaries shared their experiences.
Aisha Mohammed, a 32-year-old mother of four, said it was her first time being tested.
“I came here because I heard it was free. I was scared, but now I’m relieved. I know my status, and I’ll encourage my husband to do the same.”
Anas Shehu, a commercial tricycle rider, expressed similar relief.
“I couldn’t afford a hospital test. Today, I was screened and received advice from doctors. I feel cared for.”
Fatima Abdulrahman, a university student, highlighted the value of the health talk.
“I used to think Hepatitis B was like malaria. Now I understand how serious it is. I’ll educate my friends too.”
Health workers at the event offered free counseling and referrals for those who tested positive, ensuring no one was left behind. Educational materials were also distributed, and plans for vaccination follow-ups were announced.
As health concerns continue to rise across Nigeria’s rural areas, the initiative stands as a model for grassroots healthcare delivery—bringing hope, knowledge, and care to those who need it most.
