By Rotimi Odofin
Lokoja, Jan. 30, 2026
The Kogi State Government, in collaboration with Sightsavers, has called for unified efforts to eradicate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The state commemorated World NTD Day by emphasizing the critical need for collective action against diseases affecting over one billion people globally.
Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, the State Commissioner for Health, made this appeal during a press briefing held in Lokoja to mark World NTD Day. He highlighted that NTDs significantly hinder poverty alleviation, economic growth, and social development.
Dr. Adeiza noted that Kogi State has made notable strides in combating NTDs, including the successful completion of the Transmission Assessment Survey 1 (TAS 1) for Lymphatic Filariasis, which has led to the cessation of mass drug administration. This achievement, realized through collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Sightsavers, underscores the importance of sustained efforts and partnerships with donor partners and other stakeholders.
“This is a major public health milestone, and we are proud of the progress made,” he stated.
Kogi State has been actively addressing NTDs such as Onchocerciasis, Lymphatic Filariasis, Schistosomiasis, and Soil-Transmitted Helminths through comprehensive mapping surveys and treatment programs across all 21 Local Government Areas. Treatment for Onchocerciasis began in 1997, with Mectizan administered in all 21 LGAs, and for Lymphatic Filariasis in 11 LGAs using Mectizan and Albendazole.
Despite these achievements, Dr. Adeiza acknowledged ongoing challenges, including the non-release of government counterpart funding and the lack of dedicated resources. The Ministry is actively seeking the support of the Executive Governor, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, to address pressing challenges and facilitate the donation of a Hilux utility vehicle to enhance program logistics.
On behalf of the Ministry, the commissioner expressed appreciation to the Governor for his significant contributions to strengthening the state’s health sector.
He also extended gratitude to Sightsavers, the World Health Organization, and other donor agencies for their invaluable support, stating, “Together, we can unite, act, and eliminate NTDs for a healthier and more productive Kogi State.”
Anita Gwom, Director of Reaching the Last Mile (RLM) at Sightsavers, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to eradicating NTDs in Nigeria. She emphasized that Sightsavers, as a leading organization in the fight against NTDs, is intensifying its campaign to promote collective action against these diseases.
Sightsavers has been engaged in combating NTDs in Nigeria for over three decades. “For us at Sightsavers, World NTD Day is an opportunity to call on everyone to join forces and eliminate NTDs in Nigeria by 2030, as outlined by WHO,” Gwom stated.
Mr. Musa Momohjimoh, State NTD Coordinator, highlighted the importance of awareness and prevention, noting, “The ministry has been actively sensitizing the public about NTDs.” He emphasized that knowledge and ideas are crucial to healthy living, with prevention being key.
Momohjimoh urged the public to utilize free services provided by the government and partners like Sightsavers, which has conducted over 200 free surgeries. He stressed that the ultimate goal is Universal Health Coverage, ensuring everyone has access to quality healthcare, regardless of income.
“Let us work together to eliminate NTDs and create a healthier Kogi State,” he stated.
World NTD Day is observed every January 30, with the global theme: Unite, Act, Eliminate NTDs, undersc
