In the effort to address Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), the Ondo State Government has vowed to fight against its rise to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the state.
On Wednesday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, made this affirmation in a one-day advocacy meeting held with stakeholders from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare along with other key partners.
Highlighting the importance of addressing this issue, Dr. Ajaka said controlling NTDs will lead to poverty reduction, improve health, gender quality, education, and other health benefits that align with SDGs objectives.
He said the programme aims to manage, reduce, and eradicate NTDs in Ondo State.
Dr. Ajaka reveals that the state NTDs unit will employ technology and innovation approaches such as mass administration, integrated control, disease mapping and surveillance, and disease control and elimination.
Dr. Ajaka stated that within the state about 584 primary healthcare centres, 24 secondary health facilities, and over 385 private hospitals have taken the bold step in fighting against NTDs.
He said, “The state currently addresses treatment of NTDs such as Lymphatic Filariasis. Onchocerciasis, Schistosomiasis, and Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Ondo State.”
Recalling their achievements, Dr. Ajaka stated that health facilities have treated about 1,489,692 individuals across onchocerciasis-endemic Local Government with Ivermectin with 100% geographic coverage across the communities.
Dr. Ajaka recounted, “Also this year, the United Nations Education Fund (UNICEF) supported the state in Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) in four endemic wards of the Akoko North East Local Government Area of the state with 11 thousand households triggered, and over 100 communities have been confirmed to be open defecation free out of 186 communities triggered.
“Moreover, about 146 community WASHCOM committees were formed across the communities with 835 members.”
The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to combating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) as part of its public health agenda and sustainable development goals.
Dr. Ajakaye emphasized that the state, with the support of partners, has been evaluated for NTD endemicity, with findings from the Federal Ministry of Health expected to guide future efforts.
He commended partners such as UNICEF and MITOSATH for their contributions, highlighting their collaboration’s success.
On behalf of MITOSATH, Executive Director Ononogbo Ikesinachi urged the state to commit its counterpart funding to sustain the project’s gains.
UNICEF’s representative, Mr. Monday Johnson, lauded the state for prioritising both treatment and prevention, noting this as a critical index of development.
RUWASSA General Manager, Engr. Rotimi Oladimeji, outlined government initiatives to improve access to clean water and sanitation, pledging further collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
He announced plans for intensified efforts to end open defecation in the coming year.
Mrs. Imaobong Umah from the Federal Ministry of Health acknowledged progress but stressed the need for sustained efforts, urging media organisations to enhance public awareness through advocacy.
Other key contributors, including Dr. Stephen Fagbemi and representatives from the Ministries of Health and Budget, pledged continued support for the project.
A major highlight was the presentation by State Coordinator Mrs. Olanike Oladipupo on NTD elimination progress, alongside the 2025 proposed activities and budget.
Also, discussions centred on establishing a dedicated budget line and timelines to ensure the project’s success.