Hon. Beni Lar has called on the Federal Government to consider upgrading the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) Comprehensive Health Centre, Zamko, into a specialised ANTI-SNAKE VENOM TREATMENT AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE, following growing concerns over the alarming number of deaths resulting from snakebites.
She made this call on Monday, August 21st, 2026, when she accompanied the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, and a proud daughter of Plateau, Hon. Kachollom Daju (mni), on a working visit to Comprehensive Health Centre Zamko.
Hon. Lar noted that these realities require a stronger, more sustainable response; she also stressed that one of the most pressing concerns raised is the shortage of anti-snake venom antidote. Even in cases where the life-saving treatment is available, its cost remains beyond the reach of many victims and their families, including in situations where government-supported supplies are available.
In his speech, the acting president, Langtang Joint Traditional Council, and the Ponzhi Zinni, HRH Nimnan Langnim, gave a report indicating that more than 100 people have reportedly lost their lives to snakebites just within this year. The figure highlights a health emergency that has continued to affect families and communities, particularly in the villages where access to prompt and effective treatment remains a major challenge.
The visit also highlighted an important part of the history and potential that already exists within the Tarok nation.
It is worthy of note that Dr. Nandul Durfa, a son of Tarokland, was the lead researcher who produced Echitab, an anti-snake venom antidote used across Nigeria, using plant-based ingredients. It is a testament to the wealth of indigenous knowledge and research potential that exists within our communities.
Even more encouraging is the information that researchers at the University of Jos have carried out research towards developing a snake-venom vaccine. A lead member of the research team from the University of Jos, Dr. Dogo, presented the first vial of the vaccine produced through the research, further demonstrating the scientific potential that can be developed through sustained investment and institutional support. The first vial of the proposed research product is already available and awaiting human clinical trials, thus opening up further possibilities for scientific research and development.
Furthermore, Hon Lar stated that these developments should not be allowed to remain individualized efforts. Rather, they present an opportunity for the Federal Government, medical institutions, researchers, scientists, and relevant agencies to build on the foundation that already exists.
Her advocacy is therefore for the upgrade of the JUTH Comprehensive Health Centre, Zamko, into a specialised institution with the capacity to strengthen anti-snakebite treatment, support research, improve access to anti-snake venom, and advance scientific efforts towards finding lasting solutions to the growing challenge of snakebite-related deaths.
