The government of the state of Oyo has invested thirty million Naira in the eradication of neglected tropical diseases (NTD) in the 33 areas of the local government in the state.
The Health Commissioner, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi on World NTD Day of 2025 in Ibadan.
He pointed out that NTDs that include lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), oncocercosis (river blindness), schistosomiasis and helminths transmitted by the soil, affect the poorest and most marginalized communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting opportunities for growth and development.
She said that among the most notable achievements of the state government is the successful implementation of the Mass Administration Program (MAM), an important initiative aimed at eliminating NTD.
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Through this program, the Government trained 18,000 community drug distributors (CDD), which demonstrated exceptional dedication when they reached 13,401 communities in 298 rooms in the state.
According to her, these first -line health workers performed crucial roles in the delivery of essential medicines to prevent and treat lymphatic filariasis and oncocercosis.
In addition, the State has strengthened its medical care force by equipping 641 health workers at the level of the local government area (LGA) with the tools and knowledge necessary to supervise and support community -based efforts , ensuring the effectiveness of the program.
To further improve coordination and implementation, 31 Directors of Environmental Health and Environmental Health officers were trained to supervise NTD interventions within their respective LGA.
Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized the unwavering state resolution of eliminating NTD, recognizing its harmful impact on public health, productivity and general well -being.
“Here in the state of Oyo, we are very aware of the challenges raised by NTDS. These diseases affect the health and productivity of our people, but we remain determined in our commitment to eliminate them through strategic investments, associations and innovative approaches. “
The commissioner expressed a deep appreciation for his excellence, Governor Seyi Makinde, for his firm commitment to improve medical care in the state. She acknowledged that the approval of the governor of the funds for the MAM program last year demonstrates the dedication of her administration to make medical care a priority.
It also extended gratitude to the main development partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, CBM, Evidence Action and other interested parties whose support has been fundamental to advance in the struggle of the state of Oyo against the NTD .
Previously in his comments, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health of the State of Oyo, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, stressed the importance of continuous awareness and community -led interventions to combat the NTD.
The event was attended by the key stakeholders, representatives of the collaborating ministries and the partners of the health sector, all of which praised the proactive measures of the government to guarantee a healthier and free state of minds and free of NTD.
The activities of the day presented the free distribution of essential medicines and an extensive awareness campaign in the main streets and markets of Ibadan.
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