From HASSAN JIRGI, Maiduguri
University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, UMTH, has announced plans to conduct free transplants for the first 20 people suffering from kidney disease.
The Chief Medical Director, CMD, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo made the disclosure during a press briefing at the hospital in Maiduguri.
This development came after the hospital successfully resumed kidney transplant services few weeks ago, a programme that was first introduced in 2010.
According to Professor Ahidjo, the hospital aims to make the transplant one of the cheapest in the world.
He noted that while the transplant procedure would be free, the cost of drugs and consumables, estimated at N5 million, would be covered by potential donors.
The CMD appealed to donors to contribute towards procuring consumables for the next 20 patients who will undergo the transplant freely.
He assured that the hospital will provide follow-up care to the patients after the operation.
The resumption of kidney transplant services at UMTH is a significant development, considering the high number of kidney cases in the North-East region.
Previously, patients had to travel out of the country for transplants, which cost around N13.5 million for the operation alone, excluding flight and other expenses.
