Urgent Call for NTD Elimination Funding in Nigeria

A letter addressed to General TY Danjuma emphasizes the urgent need for Nigeria to address neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which affect millions, primarily in underserved communities. Nigeria bears half of Africa's NTD burden, with approximately 100 million people at risk.

The appeal calls for a financial commitment of $300 million to $500 million over the next 10 to 15 years to support the elimination of lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, and trachoma. The TY Danjuma Foundation has previously demonstrated commitment by delivering 27 million treatments in Taraba State for various NTDs.

Current reports indicate that 39.5 million people across 20 states no longer require treatment for lymphatic filariasis, and significant progress has been made in interrupting onchocerciasis transmission. The letter stresses the importance of proper funding to achieve elimination goals and the need for a coordinated effort involving local ownership and expertise.