The Bauchi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating Neglected Tropical Diseases NTDs and achieving their elimination by 2030. This pledge was made during the closing ceremony of the Trachoma Trichiasis Project, where a transition plan was handed over to the state government by the Health and Development Support Programme and Savesight.
Commissioner of Health, Dr. Adamu Sambo, represented by Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, emphasized the states dedication to eradicating NTDs, particularly Trachoma, the leading cause of blindness worldwide. He highlighted the measures put in place to achieve this goal, including capacity building for healthcare workers and the establishment of Static Centers in 19 Local Government Areas.
The state government appreciated the support from partners, including the training of 20 Ophthalmic Nurses and 40 healthcare workers, as well as the treatment of 13,507 patients with trachomatous trichiasis from 2017 to 2023.
Hauwa Abubakar, North-East Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, commended the partners for their collaborative efforts in fighting Trachoma and trichiasis in Bauchi state. Dr. Innocent Emereuwa, Director of HANDS, noted the projects significant successes in identifying and treating victims of the disease across the state.
With this renewed commitment, Bauchi State is poised to make significant strides in eliminating tropical diseases and improving the health and well-being of its citizens