The Federal Government, in collaboration with Medecins Sans Frontieres and 31 other member states, has proposed the inclusion of Noma as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) in the World Health Organization’s official disease listing. Noma is a necrotising disease that affects the mouth and face, particularly among vulnerable populations living in poverty. The proposal was presented by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, during the inauguration of the Noma Centre at the National Hospital in Abuja. The move aims to secure global recognition for efforts against Noma and enhance awareness, research, and a coordinated global response.
The Minister highlighted the urgency to address Noma, especially in children under the age of five, and stressed the need for accelerated implementation of Sustainable Development Goal III and the realization of Universal Health Coverage. Noma, if left untreated, is associated with a 90% mortality rate within weeks. The proposal for Noma’s inclusion in the NTD list is viewed as a significant step forward for the Global Noma Community, fostering awareness, research initiatives, and a coordinated global response against this preventable disease.
The WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi, commended Nigeria’s commitment to combating Noma and reiterated WHO’s commitment to assisting Nigeria in preventing and controlling the disease. The anticipated inclusion in the WHO’s NTD list is expected to attract increased global attention to address the risk factors and impact of Noma on vulnerable populations.