Nigeria has made significant strides in its battle against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), successfully surpassing global targets for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis. This achievement was highlighted at the close-out ceremony and virtual results presentation of the "Eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis and Onchocerciasis in Nigeria Assessment to Stop Ivermectin Treatment Project" in Abuja, a project supported by the Gates Foundation.

According to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, these positive outcomes represent a substantial boost to Nigeria's public health response and align perfectly with the World Health Organisation's (WHO) 2030 roadmap for NTDs. The project's findings revealed that over 31.1 million Nigerians are now free from the need for mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis, and 16 million people no longer require ivermectin treatment for onchocerciasis. These figures not only demonstrate Nigeria's dedication but also exceeded the project's original target of 27 million people, showcasing results beyond initial expectations and placing the country on a stronger trajectory towards interrupting disease transmission and eventual elimination.

The Gates Foundation-supported project, initially designed as a 17-month intervention, commenced in 2022 and was extended until September 2025 at no additional cost to ensure sustainability and maximize its impact. The Gates Foundation provided approximately $4.9 million to facilitate epidemiological, entomological, and transmission assessment surveys across multiple states. Sightsavers served as the grant manager, working in close collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and various implementing partners. During the project period, Nigeria achieved 148 percent of its target for lymphatic filariasis assessments and 150 percent for onchocerciasis assessments. The intervention also successfully delivered 46 pre-transmission assessment surveys (TAS), 116 transmission assessment surveys covering TAS 1 and TAS 3, and a comprehensive breeding site assessment.

Beyond the direct disease control outcomes, the project also played a crucial role in strengthening Nigeria's health system. It supported essential laboratory upgrades, provided training to more than 300 field personnel and 65 laboratory technicians, and significantly improved sample transportation systems through certified logistics providers. Furthermore, the project aided in the development of national policies concerning sample retention and disposal, thereby enhancing quality assurance and surveillance systems within the country.

Mr. Salako extended his gratitude to the Gates Foundation, Sightsavers, the Non-Governmental Development Organisation (NGDO), Coalition for Neglected Tropical Diseases, state ministries of health, and other partners for their collaborative efforts and transparency throughout the project. He also commended the Department of Public Health, the national coordinator for neglected tropical diseases, and technical committees for their leadership and scientific guidance. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare remains steadfast in its commitment to sustaining these gains, reinforcing surveillance, and accelerating progress towards the complete elimination of neglected tropical diseases in Nigeria.

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of infectious diseases that predominantly affect impoverished, rural, and tropical communities with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and adequate healthcare. They are termed "neglected" because, despite afflicting millions globally, they receive considerably less attention and funding compared to major diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. NTDs are typically caused by parasites, bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that flourish in environments characterized by poor hygiene, unsafe water, and substandard housing. These diseases frequently lead to chronic illness, disability, disfigurement, and social stigma, perpetuating cycles of poverty and hindering economic productivity in affected communities.

Globally recognized NTDs include onchocerciasis (river blindness), a parasitic disease transmitted by blackflies that can cause intense itching and blindness; lymphatic filariasis, spread by mosquitoes and associated with severe swelling of the limbs; trachoma, a bacterial eye infection that can lead to irreversible blindness; and schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection linked to contact with contaminated freshwater. Other NTDs encompass soil-transmitted helminth infections, leprosy, dengue, and chikungunya. According to the WHO, approximately 20 to 21 diseases fall under the NTD category, with most being prevalent in regions burdened by weak health systems and inadequate sanitation.