Kwara govt canvases collaborative action against leprosy

The Kwara State Government has called on all stakeholders to collaborate with the Government in forming a united front against leprosy, as part of efforts to eliminate the disease in the state.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating leprosy and addressing the stigma associated with it, as Kwara joined the global community to commemorate World Leprosy Day 2026.

Speaking on Monday at an event held at the Nigerian Correctional Service, Oke-Kura, Ilorin,
Taoheed Abdullahi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, explained that the State Government is working assiduously with relevant stakeholders to raise awareness and promote early detection of leprosy.

He emphasised that the Government remains committed to eliminating leprosy in the state by intensifying public enlightenment, supporting early detection initiatives such as the “Leprosy Zero by 2030” campaign, and actively combating stigma. He urged stakeholders to key into the campaign to achieve collective success.

Abdullahi noted that this year’s theme, “Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma,” aligns with global efforts to dispel myths, encourage early diagnosis, and promote timely treatment.

He explained that leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, remains a public health concern despite being completely curable with multi-drug therapy provided free of charge.

According to him, over 200,000 new leprosy cases are reported globally each year, with Africa accounting for a significant proportion.

“These figures remind us that leprosy thrives in silence hidden by fear, misinformation, and stigma which deprive individuals, families, and communities of dignity and productivity,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary further highlighted ongoing interventions by the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the National Leprosy and TB Control Programme, including intensified active case-finding across all 16 Local Government Areas of the state.

He disclosed that over 500 primary healthcare workers have been trained on early detection, while Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials have been distributed in local languages. Leprosy services, he added, have also been integrated into routine health outreaches across the state.

According to him, these interventions have contributed significantly to the reduction in disability rates among newly detected cases.

Abdullahi attributed the achievements to the sustained support of the Kwara State Government under the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, commending the governor for his commitment to Universal Health Coverage and the elimination of leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases.

Earlier, Omole Olumuyiwa, the Officer-in-Charge of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Oke-Kura, Ilorin, Assistant Comptroller of Corrections (ACC), represented by Ariyibi Surajudeen, Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC), appreciated the State Government for extending free medical screening, treatment, and sensitisation to inmates.