The Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, has decried the rising cost of diabetes medication, warning that the burden is pushing many Nigerians with the condition to the brink.
Speaking at his palace during a road walk to commemorate the 2025 World Diabetes Day, the Emir — represented by the Galadiman Bauchi, Surveyor Ibrahim Saidu Jahun, appealed to governments at all levels to place diabetes drugs on the subsidised list to ease the financial strain on patients.
He noted that countless diabetics struggle daily to afford essential medication.
He said “including diabetes treatment in subsidised schemes would greatly improve the wellbeing and survival of patients.”
The emir commended the organisers for their sustained enlightenment campaigns, adding that awareness and prevention remain critical in reducing the disease’s spread and impact.
The advocacy event, organised by the Institute for Dietetics in Nigeria and the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN), Bauchi State Chapter, spotlighted this year’s theme, “Diabetes and Well-being.”
Our correspondent reports that participants marched from the Emir’s Palace to the Government House, calling for stronger action against the growing health challenge.
Chairperson of NSN Bauchi, Comfort Daniel Madaki, said the World Diabetes Day activities were designed to equip Nigerians with accurate information about diabetes.
She urged the public to embrace healthier diets, engage in regular exercise, and prioritise routine medical check-ups.
As part of the commemoration, free diabetes screening was carried out at the Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, offering residents an opportunity for early detection and intervention.
