Kaduna State has recorded a steady decline in snakebite cases for the third consecutive year, the Commissioner for Health, Umma Ahmad, has revealed.

Speaking with PUNCH Online on Tuesday, Ahmad attributed the reduction to improved availability of anti-snake venom and government-backed emergency medical interventions.

“Records from health facilities show a drop from 68 cases in 2023 to 58 in 2024, and further down to 50 in 2025,” she stated, noting that the state government had, over three years ago, directed all health facilities to maintain adequate anti-snake venom stocks.

Treatment costs for snakebite victims are now covered under the Kaduna State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System, while the Kaduna State Health Supplies Management Agency maintains 176 doses of antivenom in stock.

Ahmad acknowledged challenges remain, including late presentation at health facilities, reliance on traditional remedies, storage issues, and occasional short-term stock gaps. However, she emphasised that antivenom distribution is centrally coordinated to minimise disruptions.

“Snakebite envenoming remains a recognised public health concern, particularly in some rural communities of Kaduna State,” she said, urging residents to seek immediate medical attention rather than resorting to traditional treatments.

The issue gained national attention following the death of Abuja-based singer Ifunanya Nwangene last Saturday, reportedly from a snakebite. Nwangene had risen to prominence after appearing on The Voice Nigeria in 2021.

According to the Toxinological Society of Nigeria, the country experiences an estimated 43,000 snakebite cases annually, resulting in nearly 1,900 deaths. A report by the global Strike Out Snakebite initiative also highlighted that around half of Nigeria’s health facilities lack adequate capacity to manage snakebite envenoming effectively.

Ahmad concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening access to life-saving antivenom therapy, ensuring that facilities across the state are equipped to respond promptly to snakebite emergencies.