Theme: Unite. Act. Eliminate.
World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day is commemorated annually on 30 January to raise awareness about a group of preventable and treatable diseases that continue to affect over one billion people globally, particularly in low-income and underserved communities.
In Nigeria, NTDs remain a major public health concern, contributing to disability, stigma, reduced productivity, and persistent poverty.
This year’s theme, “Unite. Act. Eliminate.”, underscores the urgent need for collective action by governments, health institutions, communities, and partners to accelerate progress towards the control and elimination of NTDs.
Diseases such as lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis, leprosy, and trachoma continue to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services.
The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) joins the global community in commemorating World NTD Day, reaffirming its commitment to improving health outcomes through quality clinical care, community outreach, research, training of health professionals, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
UBTH remains dedicated to strengthening surveillance, promoting early diagnosis, supporting public health interventions, and advancing integrated approaches for the prevention and control of NTDs.
World NTD Day serves as a reminder that eliminating NTDs is both a public health and social justice imperative.
Through sustained political will, increased investment, community participation, and multisectoral collaboration, significant progress can be achieved towards ensuring healthier lives and leaving no one behind.
