NOA urges Nigerians to join fight against hepatitis

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to join the global fight against hepatitis.

The NOA’s Director in Jigawa State, Malam Ahmad Ibrahim, made the call in a statement issued by the agency’s Head of Media and Communication, Sarah Ogodo, in Dutse on Monday, to commemorate the 2025 World Hepatitis Day.

Ibrahim the 2025 theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” called for urgent and collective action to dismantle all barriers, whether financial, social, or systemic, that hindered the elimination of the disease.

Describing hepatitis as a dangerous inflammation of the liver caused by viruses such as Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, Ibrahim stressed that Hepatitis B and C were the most deadly, often leading to liver cancer and death if untreated.

“Hepatitis is preventable and treatable. Knowing our status is crucial.

“Many people living with hepatitis are unaware, so we must get tested today at a hospital or health centre,” he advised.

He also appealed to Nigerians to get vaccinated, noting that the Hepatitis B vaccine was safe, effective, and available.

Ibrahim further encouraged the public to adopt safe health practices, such as avoiding the sharing of sharp objects like razors and needles, and ensuring that all blood transfusions were properly screened.

He cautioned against the stigmatisation of people living with hepatitis, emphasising that they deserved support and compassion, not discrimination.