In a significant step towards improving public health, the Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a series of national policy documents aimed at addressing the escalating threat of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) across the country.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, emphasized that these policies represent a decisive action against diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, cancers, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, sickle cell anemia, and mental health disorders. These conditions collectively contribute to approximately 447,800 deaths annually in Nigeria.
During the launch event held in Abuja on Thursday, August 22, themed ‘Revitalising NCDs Prevention and Control in Nigeria: Strengthening Multisectoral Collaboration,’ Prof. Pate highlighted that the government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, is fully committed to the health and well-being of Nigerians. The government’s efforts align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3, which focuses on Good Health and Well-being.
The newly launched policies include the National Policy for the Prevention and Control of NCDs, the National NCD Task-Shifting and Task-Sharing (NTSTS) Policy, and the National Guideline for the Prevention and Management of Hypertension. Additionally, the government unveiled the National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (2024-2028), a newsletter for People Living with NCDs (PLWNCDs), and the Official Gazette on Fats, Oils, and Food Containing Fats & Oils Regulations 2022.
Prof. Pate, represented at the event by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachallom, noted the urgency of adopting a holistic approach to tackling NCDs, given that these diseases account for 27% of all annual deaths in Nigeria. Many of these fatalities occur prematurely, between the ages of 30 and 70, underscoring the critical need for the government’s intervention.
“The launch of these publications marks a crucial step in our nation’s journey toward a healthier future. These documents are not merely guidelines; they are instruments of change that will shape our healthcare practices and policies for years to come,” said Prof. Pate.
He pointed to global examples of successful NCD strategies, such as Finland’s North Karelia Project in the 1970s, which reduced cardiovascular disease mortality by 70% over 25 years through community-based interventions. He also cited South Africa’s national salt reduction program, which has significantly lowered the population’s salt intake and contributed to a reduction in hypertension prevalence.
In Nigeria, these newly launched documents are part of the broader goals under the National Health Sector Reform Implementation Initiative (NHSRII) and the Renewed Hope Agenda. The policies aim to provide clear, evidence-based guidelines and foster a culture of accountability and excellence, empowering healthcare providers to deliver better care and encouraging communities to take proactive steps toward healthier lifestyles.
Prof. Pate also announced the expansion of cancer diagnosis and treatment infrastructure in six Federal teaching hospitals, further enhancing the country’s capacity to combat NCDs. Additionally, the retraining of 120,000 frontline health workers is underway, equipping them with the latest skills and knowledge to meet the evolving needs of healthcare.
“The Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding access to quality NCD services, enhancing health insurance coverage, and supporting the local manufacturing of essential medicines. We will continue to prioritize the effective implementation of these policies, ensuring that our efforts translate into tangible improvements in the health and well-being of all Nigerians,” he concluded.
