The Federal Government of Nigeria has treated over 30 million Nigerians with ivermectin in a major nationwide campaign against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), particularly Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) and Lymphatic Filariasis.
Dr. Godwin Ntadom, Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, revealed this during an NTD stakeholders’ meeting held on Wednesday in Abuja.
He announced that:
- Transmission of Lymphatic Filariasis has been interrupted in 379 LGAs
- Onchocerciasis transmission halted in nine states, and fully eliminated in two
- 30 million Nigerians have stopped requiring ivermectin treatment, reflecting huge public health savings
Stakeholders and Progress
Mr. Fatai Oyediran, National NTD Coordinator, appreciated partners like the Gates Foundation and Sightsavers, stressing that Nigeria’s greatest NTD burden comes from these two diseases. He said:
- Nine additional states are nearing elimination targets
- The programme has been extended from February to September 2025 for a final impact assessment
- Nigeria is on track to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis as a public health concern
Challenges Ahead
Despite the gains, challenges such as drug supply issues, diagnostic gaps, insecurity, and limited funding persist. Oyediran stressed the importance of national ownership, integration, and accountability for long-term success.
Sightsavers’ Call for Local Support
Mrs. Anita Gwom, Programme Director at Sightsavers Nigeria, urged more domestic funding and data-driven decision-making, emphasizing:
“We cannot continue indefinite treatment without solid impact data.”
She also called on state governments and local philanthropists to take more responsibility as foreign aid wanes.
Expert Optimism
Prof. Oladele Okogun, a Europe-based parasitologist, commended community commitment and partner efforts, expressing hope that with sustained momentum, treatments may no longer be necessary in the near future.
