The World Health Organization (WHO) also expressed support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat Noma, noting ongoing initiatives to include the disease in the Neglected Tropical Diseases list to attract more global attention and funding for its prevention and control. Photo Credit: Julian
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has announced plans to partner with subnational governments and traditional leaders to address the risk factors of Noma disease, improve prevention strategies, and prioritize oral health nationwide.
The announcement was made during the 2024 National Oral Health and Noma Day and Scientific Conference in Abuja.
Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, represented by Dr. Jimoh Salaudeen, Director of the Department of Hospital Services, emphasized the importance of workforce development at the grassroots level. “We are working with stakeholders to engage in programs that will strengthen workforce capabilities, especially through training healthcare workers, traditional rulers, and community officers for early detection and treatment of infections like Noma,” Dr. Salaudeen stated.
The Ministry also introduced a policy aimed at addressing workforce challenges in rural areas, focusing on training healthcare providers at Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) and improving access to care.
Dr. Kachollom Daju, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Dr. Azeez Aderemi, Director of Specialty Hospitals, highlighted the link between Noma and factors such as malnutrition, poor oral hygiene, and weakened immune systems.
He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to offering free treatment for Noma patients, in collaboration with local and international partners. “The federal government is working actively on public health actions to reduce the burden of Noma and other oral health diseases, with a focus on community education and an integrated primary healthcare approach,” Dr. Aderemi said.
Noma, often called “the face of poverty,” is a severe gangrenous infection primarily affecting children aged 2 to 6 years, leading to devastating damage to the face and soft tissues of the mouth.
By: Julian Adetinuyo
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