Increasing Cases Of Organ Failure, Challenge To Society – Kalu

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu says organ failure in Nigeria has not only become a medical concern but also a challenge to the society.

Mr Kalu who decried the increasing cases of organ failure in the country said that the parliament would collaborate with the Transplant Association of Nigeria, TAN, and other relevant authorities to ensure that the concerns were addressed.

The Deputy Speaker gave the assurance when a delegation of the Transplant Association of Nigeria, TAN, led by Doctor Olalekan Olatise paid him a visit in Abuja.

He expressed happiness over the report of 700 successful kidney transplants carried out in the country by the Nephrology Association of Nigeria and assured that the House would enact necessary legislations to make available the requisite infrastructure and resources for more successful organ transplant in Nigeria and also to discourage Nigerians from going abroad on medical tourism.

He said: “Organ problems have become increasingly prevalent in our country, affecting numerous lives and families. The challenge of organ failure is not only a medical concern but also a societal one. It is encouraging to note that the Nephrology Association of Nigeria has reported over 700 kidney transplants carried out within our nation so far. This statistic underscores the strides we are making in addressing organ-related issues and gives us hope for the future.

“We stand ready to work in concert with the Transplant Association of Nigeria to further address this critical issue. The National Assembly recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing healthcare challenges. We are committed to creating an enabling environment through policies, legislation, and funding to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and resources are available for successful organ transplantation programs.

“Collaboration is key, and we assure you that we are eager to join forces with your association to tackle the complexities surrounding organ transplantation in Nigeria. By combining our efforts, expertise, and resources, we can make significant strides toward improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for our fellow citizens.”

Earlier, Dr. Olalekan Olatise lamented the superstitions, myth and other belief systems such as reincarnation that had inhibited the donation of organs, suggesting that a legal framework be put in place to make it compulsory.

According to him, The country is losing about 1.2 billion dollars annually to medical tourism abroad.

Dr Olatise also invited the deputy speaker to their forthcoming biannual conference where he said Nigerians were expected to deliberate more for solutions to the problem.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji