200m Nigerians At Risk Of Neglected Tropical Diseases — Federal Gov’t
The Federal Government has raised alarm over the high prevalence of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Nigeria, revealing that more than 200 million Nigerians are at risk of contracting these diseases. Of this number, 165 million individuals are in need of preventive chemotherapy.
Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, made this disclosure during a press briefing in Abuja to mark the 2025 World NTD Day. He underscored that NTDs constitute a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, accounting for 25% of Africa’s NTD cases.
“NTDs are both communicable and non-communicable diseases, mainly affecting children and women, and are often linked to poverty, inadequate sanitation, unsafe water supply, and poor housing conditions,” Dr. Salako said. “Nigeria has over 200 million people at risk of at least one NTD, with 165 million requiring preventive treatment for these diseases.”
The theme for this year’s World NTD Day, “Unite. Act. Eliminate NTDs,” emphasizes the urgency of collective action to combat 21 diseases classified as NTDs. These diseases, caused by pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi, disproportionately affect marginalized communities with limited access to healthcare.
Dr. Salako also highlighted Nigeria’s alignment with the World Health Organisation (WHO) 2021–2030 roadmap, noting the country’s efforts to address NTDs. “Nigeria has developed and is implementing its NTDs master plan for 2023–2027, which will serve as a key tool for advocacy in achieving the WHO’s 2030 targets,” he explained.
Despite progress, such as the eradication of Guinea Worm disease in 2013, the elimination of Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) in Plateau and Nasarawa states, and an 84% reduction in trachoma infection prevalence, Dr. Salako acknowledged that NTDs remain a low priority on Nigeria’s healthcare agenda.
The Minister urged state governments to allocate adequate funds to combat NTDs and integrate these efforts into broader health programs. He also called on development partners, the media, and civil society organizations to sustain awareness and advocacy for NTD prevention and control. Eliminating NTDs, he emphasized, is crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030 and meeting Sustainable Development Goal 3.
Abdulazeez Musa, the Country Director of CBM Global Nigeria, also commented on the issue, emphasizing that NTDs are not just a public health problem but a social justice issue. He pointed out that the diseases rob millions of children of their dreams and potential.
World NTD Day, observed annually on January 30, aims to raise awareness and mobilize action to eliminate NTDs, which affect the world’s most vulnerable populations.
