As reported by Voice of Nigeria, the Kwara State Government, in collaboration with Sightsavers, has officially launched the distribution of medicines to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) at Afon, the headquarters of Asa Local Government Area.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hajia Afusat Ibrahim, presided over the flag-off ceremony. Dr. El-Imam reiterated the government's commitment to safeguarding the health of its residents by taking all necessary actions to protect them from sickness and disease.

The Commissioner explained that lymphatic filariasis (LF), one of the NTDs caused by filarial worms, is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The government's partnership with Sightsavers is aimed at controlling and eradicating such diseases in the state.

“In untreated individuals, this disease can cause swollen legs, breasts and scrotum, thereby causing severe disability and disfigurement. Therefore, sufferers from this disease are prone to stigmatization from friends or relatives and communities at large” she further affirmed.

According to her, “one of the proven strategies recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), in combatting LF and other NTDs is the Annual Mass Administration of Medicines.

“Over the years, Government in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health and Sightsavers, have been supporting the distribution of free medicines, treat Lymphatic Filariasis, whenever the need arises, adding that Government is working immensely towards eliminating LF in the State.

“Previous assessments by Federal Ministry of Health and partners have shown that we have curbed the transmission of LF in 10 Local Government Areas, out of the 11 endemic for LF.”

She commended the Governor of the State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for prioritizing the health of Kwarans, through the support of several health interventions in the State.

She therefore enjoined the entire Kwara residents to support this administration at controlling NTD in the state by taking necessary steps to eliminate the disease.

Also in his brief remark, the Chairman House Committee on Health and Environment and Member representing Ifelodun Local Government constituency, Kwara House of Assembly, Owolabi AbdulRazaq urged Asa communities to complement government efforts at administering the medicines.

In her remarks, the Sightsavers, Country Director, Dr Joy Shuaibu explained that, Kwara State has recorded a huge success in eliminating NTDs through free surgical intervention to reduce endemic in the state

Joy who spoke through the state Sight Savers programme Officer, Mr Olalekan Àjàyí, said kwara State Government standout among other states in the elimination of NTDs, giving kudos to the current administration, on the achievement.

Earlier the State NTDs coordinator, Mrs Yemisi Bamigboye commended the state government, for its efforts towards the elimination of NTDs in the state.