NOA Adamawa Urges Mass Testing, Vaccination as World Marks Hepatitis Day

Yola, July 28, 2025

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Adamawa State has called on residents to prioritize testing and vaccination against hepatitis B and C, warning that the silent epidemic continues to pose a severe health risk due to low public awareness; this was contained in a statement signed by Manugarcha  Daniel, Deputy Director, Media and Communications NOA, Adamawa.

The appeal was made today in commemoration of World Hepatitis Day 2025, with the global theme “We’re Not Waiting” resonating with local efforts to “Break the Chain” of transmission through education and early detection.  

Hepatitis B and C are leading causes of liver disease and cancer in Nigeria, yet many carriers remain unaware due to a lack of symptoms in early stages. The Adamawa State Directorate of NOA emphasized that prevention, testing, and treatment are critical to saving lives.  

What NOA is Doing 

- Partnering with the State Ministry of Health to provide free hepatitis screening at designated health centers.  

- Mobilizing community networks to educate residents on transmission risks, including unsafe medical practices, shared needles, and unprotected sex.  

- Advocating for vaccination (for Hepatitis B) and timely medical intervention to prevent long-term liver damage.  

Mr. Richard Bala Dangari, NOA Adamawa State Director, stated:  Hepatitis is a silent killer, but it is preventable. Ignorance and delay in testing contribute to unnecessary deaths. We urge every resident to get screened, get vaccinated if eligible, and seek treatment immediately if diagnosed.”

✔ Hepatitis B & C spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.  

✔ Vaccines are available for Hepatitis B, but not for Hepatitis C (though it is curable with early treatment).  

✔ Many people show no symptoms until severe liver damage occurs—making testing vital.  

The statement further urged residents to visit the nearest primary health center or government hospital for free screening and vaccination (where applicable).  

“Don’t wait until it’s too late know your status today,”NOA urged.  

Aaron Isaac, Hicia News