The Federal Government has pledged to address the health and social challenges posed by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) by improving access to prevention, treatment, and care for millions of Nigerians. This commitment was reiterated by Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, during the commemoration of World NTD Day in Abuja. The theme for the event was “Unite. Act. Eliminate.”
Dr. Salako emphasized the importance of tackling NTDs, which affect over one billion people globally, including more than 200 million Nigerians at risk of at least one NTD. These diseases, caused by pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins, have severe social and economic impacts, particularly in underserved communities.
“The commemoration of World NTD Day provides an opportunity to renew global and national awareness of the magnitude of NTD challenges. It is also a platform to highlight progress, address obstacles, and advocate for stronger support for prevention, control, and elimination efforts,” Salako said.
He noted that the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2021–2030 NTD Roadmap has set ambitious global targets, including eliminating these diseases in various regions through innovative approaches and sustainable financing.
Dr. Salako revealed sobering statistics such as Africa bears nearly half of the global NTD burden, and Nigeria accounts for approximately 25% of cases on the continent, and over 165 million Nigerians need preventive chemotherapy for at least one NTD.
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He highlighted the government’s efforts, such as integrating Leprosy Day into NTD initiatives to foster collaboration, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment under the London Declaration (2013) and the Kigali Declaration (2019) to eliminate NTDs through government accountability, integration with other health services, and resource mobilization.
In his remarks, Mr. Peter Terver, President of IDEA-Nigeria (a national association representing persons affected by leprosy), called attention to a critical issue: the unavailability of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) medications for over a year.
“This delay has left more than 3,000 individuals, including 800 children, without treatment. Bureaucratic bottlenecks, such as additional NAFDAC requirements and permit expirations, continue to block the supply of life-saving medicines,” Terver said, describing the situation as both a health crisis and a human rights violation.
Terver urged the government to remove regulatory barriers delaying the supply of MDT, ensure an uninterrupted flow of medications to prevent further disabilities, and strengthen social inclusion programs to combat stigma and discrimination.
“Leprosy is not just a medical condition; it is a social justice issue. The time for delays is over. We demand action now to achieve zero transmission, zero discrimination, and zero disability,” he concluded.
The event underscored the critical need for government and stakeholders to unite in the fight against NTDs, leveraging innovative strategies and partnerships to improve healthcare access and outcomes for vulnerable populations. Dr. Salako reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind in the journey toward eliminating these diseases.
The World NTD Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to close healthcare gaps, eliminate stigma, and achieve a healthier, more equitable future for all.
