Neglected tropical diseases among Nigeria’s greatest public health challenges, says minister

Isiaq Salako, minister of state for health, says neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are one of Nigeria’s greatest public health challenges.

Salako spoke in Abuja on Wednesday at a high-level advocacy meeting with state commissioners for health.

NTDs include diseases such as lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), onchocerciasis (river blindness), schistosomiasis (snail fever), soil-transmitted helminthes (intestinal worms), buruli ulcers, leishmaniasis, dengue, guinea worm, trachoma, leprosy, rabies, yaws, macetoma, and snakebite.

The minister said public health is a critical aspect of national development, adding that with a population of over 220 million people, Nigeria faces numerous health challenges that impact the well-being of its citizens and economic productivity, social stability, and overall development.

“In many countries, including Nigeria, public health systems face the challenge of scarce resources,” he said.

“With limited budgets, infrastructure, and personnel, it becomes crucial to maximise the impact of every resource available.

“The integration of public health activities is not just a strategy for resource optimisation, it is an essential approach for addressing the complex and interconnected health challenges Nigeria faces today.

“By integrating efforts across sectors and programmes, we can achieve better outcomes, reduce inefficiencies, and make the most of every available resources.”

The minister said despite the remarkable strides Nigeria has made in recent years through successful treatment campaigns, preventive interventions, and partnerships, “NTDs remain one of the greatest public health challenges we face as a nation”.

“These diseases not only cause significant physical suffering but also contribute to social stigma and economic hardship, perpetuating the cycle of poverty,” he said.

“It is therefore imperative that we continue to prioritise their elimination and ensure that no one is left behind in our efforts to improve public health.

“Aside NTDs, we are also confronted with other critical public health issues, including malaria, tuberculosis (TB), HIV, non-communicable diseases, and mental health disorders, amongst others.

“These issues are interconnected and addressing them requires a multi-dimensional approach that brings together all levels of government, partners, and communities.”