The Ebonyi State Government has raised fresh concerns over the persistent burden of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in rural areas, warning that the infections continue to undermine public health, education, and economic productivity across the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Moses Ekuma, highlighted the impact of diseases such as lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), onchocerciasis (river blindness), schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminths, noting that they remain prevalent in hard-to-reach communities with limited access to quality healthcare services.
Speaking in Abakaliki during activities to commemorate the 2026 World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, Ekuma stressed that NTDs largely affect vulnerable and underserved populations, particularly residents of rural settlements. The awareness campaign featured a road walk and community sensitisation drives focused on prevention, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment.
He explained that World NTD Day is observed globally to increase awareness and galvanise action toward the elimination of neglected tropical diseases.
The commissioner assured residents that treatment for NTDs is available, safe, and free at designated health facilities across Ebonyi. He encouraged individuals experiencing symptoms such as swollen limbs, persistent itching, or other unusual health conditions to seek medical attention promptly.
Ekuma disclosed that Nigeria has made measurable progress in combating neglected tropical diseases, citing a 49 percent drop in soil-transmitted helminth infections and a 75 percent reduction in schistosomiasis cases nationwide.
He added that Ebonyi’s riverine environment and agrarian economy previously increased residents’ exposure to these infections. However, sustained mass drug administration campaigns and community-based interventions have significantly reduced transmission rates in recent years.
Ekuma also acknowledged the support of Governor Francis Nwifuru and the First Lady, Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, for prioritising healthcare investments aimed at eliminating preventable diseases in the state.
In her remarks, Mrs. Attama Egeonu, Programme Officer of The Carter Center covering Enugu, Ebonyi, and Anambra states, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting NTD elimination efforts in the region.
Founded by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, The Carter Center continues to implement neglected tropical disease control programmes in Nigeria alongside other global humanitarian initiatives. Egeonu emphasised that sustained political commitment, adequate funding, and active community participation are critical to achieving total elimination of NTDs in Ebonyi and beyond.
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