The federal government has donated anti-snake venom worth millions of naira to the Kaltungo Snakebite and Research Hospital in Gombe State.

The donation followed an appeal by the Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Muhammad, during a visit to the Minister of Health, Dr Ali Muhammad Pate, in his office.

The Mai who emphasised the urgent need for assistance to support underprivileged patients, who cannot afford treatment, appreciated the federal government’s timely intervention for coming to their aid.

The Chairman, Kaltungo Local Government Area, Hon. Iliya Suleiman, who facilitated the transportation of the anti-venom from Abuja, expressed gratitude to the federal government, saying, “During my recent visit to the hospital, I witnessed the suffering of patients, and it was heartbreaking. This support is coming at a crucial time; we will ensure the anti-snake venom is used judiciously.”

He also thanked the Minister of Health, Dr Ali Pate, the Gombe State Ministry of Health, and Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for their contributions, while commending the hospital staff for their dedication.

The Chief Medical Officer of Kaltungo Snakebite and Research Hospital, Dr Nicolas Armani Hamman, praised the Mai Kaltungo for his efforts in securing the much-needed assistance.

“We receive six to seven snakebite cases daily, and this anti-venom will save many lives as we continue to grapple with manpower shortages,” Dr Hamman noted.

The Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Muhammad, who visited the hospital wards to assess patients, highlighted the risk of snakebites during farming activities, urging the public to exercise caution as snakes often hide in agricultural tools and equipment during the farming season.