By: Oluwatobi Aroyehun
The Commissioner for Health in Kwara State, Dr. Amina El-Imam has declared the state free of Onchocerciasis and nearing complete eradication of Lymphatic Filariasis.
She also disclosed that she attended a high-level advocacy meeting on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) organized by the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) in Abuja.
According to her, the meeting brought together health commissioners, development partners, and Federal Ministry officials to strategize on resource mobilization and effective deployment in the fight against NTDs, which continue to impact the most vulnerable communities in Nigeria and beyond.
Speaking on the state’s achievements, Dr. El-Imam credited purposeful leadership and strategic interventions for Kwara’s success.
“Under the leadership of His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, Kwara State has successfully eradicated onchocerciasis, and we are now awaiting certification. We are also on the last legs of eradicating lymphatic filariasis,” she said.
The Commissioner also highlighted ongoing efforts to address other NTDs, including schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths, which remain significant public health concerns.
“Our work is far from done, but we are committed to ensuring that no Kwaran suffers from these preventable diseases,” she emphasized.
The Abuja meeting served as a platform to reinforce collaboration between state governments, development partners, and the Federal Ministry of Health in combating NTDs.
Participants explored innovative strategies to improve advocacy, secure funding, and enhance the implementation of health programs nationwide.
NTDs, including onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, are diseases that affect millions of Nigerians, causing disability and perpetuating socioeconomic challenges. However, through consistent efforts and strong partnerships, Kwara State is emerging as a leader in the national fight against these diseases.
