NGO supports 1,000 epilepsy patients in Kaduna

On Nov 13, 2023

An NGO, Education and Empowerment Centre for Women has provided medical support for over 1,000 epilepsy patients in Sanga Local government Area of Kaduna State.

Mr Benjamin Dankaka, the Project Director disclosed this in an interview with the Newsmen on Monday during inauguration of the distribution of drugs for the patients at Gwantu.

Dankaka said the organisation, funded by former Senator for Kaduna South Senatorial District, Nenadi Usman, was determined to ensure that epilepsy patients had easy access to high quality medical care and treatment.

“We aim at alleviating the physical, emotional and economic burdens experienced by individuals and families affected by epilepsy.We also want to raise public awareness about epilepsy to reduce stigma and increase understanding of the condition and ensure treatment and support services accessible to all regardless of age, gender, disability, religion or ethnic background,” he added.

Dankaka further disclosed that the initiative was tailored towards rural communities adding, “we identify epilepsy patients from disadvantaged households across various towns and villages.

“Since it’s inception in 2007, the epilepsy outreach programme had treated over 1,000 patients, while currently, 172 active patients are benefiting from the same programme. This success story serves as a testament to the impact we are making in reducing the global burden of epilepsy, a condition linked to premature mortality and economic hardship,” Dankaka added.

Also speaking in an interview, Mr James Inji, the Project Supervisor, commended the initiator over the laudable project as it had impacted beneficiaries cutting across Kaduna, Nasarawa and Plataue States.

“The beneficiaries have attested to the fact that the drugs have been helpful in the management of their ailment,” he added.

NAN/Wumi