Oyo invests N30m to eradicate neglected tropical diseases
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
In its effort to eradicate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in the State, the e Oyo State Government said it has invested ₦30 million towards disease elimination across the 33 Local Government Areas in the State.
Speaking at a press briefing to mark the 2025 World NTDs Day, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, highlighted the state’s progress in combating NTDs, including lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), onchocerciasis (river blindness), schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminths.
Ajetunmobi acknowledged that these diseases disproportionately impact the most marginalized communities and perpetuate cycles of poverty and limiting opportunities for growth and development.
She disclosed that government has achieved notable milestones, including the successful implementation of the Mass Administration of Medicines (MAM) program, a major initiative aimed at eliminating NTDs, trained 18,000 Community Drug Distributors (CDDs) who reached 13,401 communities across 298 wards in the State.
According to her, these frontline health workers played crucial roles in delivering essential medications to prevent and treat lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis.
Additionally, she said the State has strengthened its healthcare workforce by equipping 641 health workers with necessary tools and knowledge to support community-based efforts as well as trained 31 Directors of Environmental Health and Environmental Health Officers to oversee NTD interventions in their respective LGAs.
Ajetunmobi said, “Here in Oyo State, we are acutely aware of the challenges posed by NTDs. These diseases affect the health and productivity of our people, but we remain resolute in our commitment to eliminating them through strategic investments, partnerships, and innovative approaches.”
The Commissioner appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for approving funds for the MAM program last year demonstrating his administration’s dedication to making healthcare a priority and extended gratitude to major development partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, CBM, Evidence Action, and other stakeholders whose support has been instrumental in advancing Oyo State’s fight against NTDs.
Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, underscored the importance of continuous awareness and community-led interventions in combating NTDs.
