The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, along with the National Coordinator for Neglected Tropical Diseases, Fatai Oyediran, have praised the Gombe State Government for its contributions and support in tackling onchocerciasis and elephantiasis in the endemic areas of the state, achieving the elimination threshold for these diseases.
The duo expressed their gratitude on Tuesday during the Amen Health Care and Empowerment Foundation’s 2023/2024 Review Meeting and 2025 Planning Meeting held at the College of Medical Sciences Multi-purpose Hall at Gombe State University.
Represented by North-East Zonal Coordinator Hauwa Abubakar, both the minister and the NTDS national coordinator stated that no further intervention is needed for onchocerciasis and elephantiasis, as the efforts of the Amen Health Care and Empowerment Foundation, in partnership with the state government, have effectively diminished the impact of these diseases that have affected many in the state. They emphasised the necessity for ongoing surveillance and treatment in border areas to preserve the progress made and prevent the resurgence of these diseases.
They expressed appreciation to Governor Muhammadu Yahaya for creating an enabling environment that allows the foundation to operate effectively and for providing counterpart funding. They also requested additional funds and collaboration as the state aims for the eradication of these diseases.
On his part, the state commissioner for health, Dr Habu Dahiru, praised the foundation’s resolute efforts in combating NTDs and noted that the titles bestowed upon the president and founder of the foundation, Rita Oguntoyinbo, serves as recognition of her significant contributions, which have enhanced the health and lives of many individuals throughout the state.
He committed to continuing partnerships and increasing counterpart funding and encouraged the foundation to strategically plan to reach more individuals suffering from schistosomiasis, which has severe consequences for both genders. He also called for improved surveillance, treatment, and rehabilitation programs to assist those impacted by NTDs.
Additionally, the executive secretary of the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Abdulrahman Shuaibu, praised the elimination threshold achieved in the battle against onchocerciasis and elephantiasis through the foundation’s collaboration with the state government, stating that the foundation has facilitated numerous surgeries for eye conditions and hydroceles, as well as treatments for various NTDs and skills empowerment for many individuals.
The Mai Tula, Abubakar Buba, the Emir of Akko Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku and the Chief Medical Director of the Specialist Hospital Gombe Dr Mu’azu Ishaq, also lauded the foundation’s initiatives and its president, commending her exceptional contributions to the health sector in the state, which have improved the lives of many.
Speaking earlier, the president and founder of the foundation, Aimuiwu Oguntoyinbo, expressed her deep appreciation for the steadfast support from the federal and state ministries of health, which has contributed to the successes achieved.
While also extending her gratitude to Governor Yahaya and First Lady Asmau Yahaya for their backing, solicited for more support and funding to advance the fight against NTDs until the state is declared free from them.
She also thanked the local government NTDS coordinators for their assistance, without which she believed success would not have been attainable.
During the event, the outstanding local government NTDs coordinators and others received recognition and gifts for their exceptional performance.
