The Centre for Transdisciplinary Research in Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases at the University of Lagos has highlighted that Nigeria bears one of the highest burdens of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Speaking at the 2023 Day Celebration, the Centre’s Director, Prof. Wellington Oyibo, emphasized the close link between NTDs and poverty, noting that without addressing poverty, these diseases will persist. He observed that little is being done to tackle NTDs in Nigeria, which stem from inadequate infrastructure and social amenities. Because NTDs often do not cause immediate acute pain, many affected individuals remain unaware of their condition, yet the diseases pose serious long‑term health risks. For example, schistosomiasis can eventually lead to liver disease, cognitive impairment, and female genital schistosomiasis, which remains unaddressed in school curricula. Other consequences include stunted growth, reduced learning capacity, river blindness, and more.
Prof. Oyibo pointed out that the elimination of NTDs has been targeted for 2030, requiring a systematic approach. He affirmed that the University of Lagos, through the Centre, will leverage transdisciplinary research and multi‑sectoral strategies to accelerate progress toward these elimination goals. “Our research, development and implementation activities will undoubtedly support this process,” he said.
Prof. Akinde Idowu, whose fieldwork focuses on schistosomiasis, added that pharmaceutical interest in NTDs is limited, making drug distribution a major challenge. He urged researchers to prioritize NTDs in their proposals, noting that these diseases are often overlooked because they are not prevalent in Europe.
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