By; MATTHEW UKACHUNWA, Lagos Professor Wellington Oyibo has drawn attention to the burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on women, particu
By; MATTHEW UKACHUNWA, Lagos
Professor Wellington Oyibo has drawn attention to the burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on women, particularly conditions like female genital schistosomiasis.
Oyibo who is Director of the Centre for Transdisciplinary Research in Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases (CTRMNTDs), expressed concerns that the conditions he drew attention to are often under-reported, stressing that they contribute to infertility, still birth, and other reproductive health challenges.
He highlighted “the grave injustice of women and girls suffering from infections acquired through routine activities like farming and swimming in infected water – not due to lifestyle choices, but simply due to environmental exposure.”
In a statement issued on Saturday, 5th July, 2025, the professor called for more inclusive research that reflects the lived realities of vulnerable populations.
He urged Nigerians to ask the fundamental question, namely: “What can I do?” rather than relying solely on government or international aid in tackling malaria and other neglected tropical diseases.
Oyibo disclosed that CTRMNTD is conducting a comparative study between microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), with a focus on understanding healthcare providers’ behaviour and patient preferences in testing versus presumptive treatment.
He called for a national cultural shift towards evidence-based treatment, similar to global best practices, where diagnosis precedes medication – a model that significantly improves outcomes and avoids unnecessary drug use.
The CTRMNTD director emphasized that lasting progress requires mass mobilization, public education, partnership across sectors, namely: health, media, agriculture, and community ownership, especially in rural areas where agricultural activities and poor infrastructure fuel persistent malaria transmission.
In the statement titled, “Prof Oyibo Calls for Unified, Innovative Action to Eliminate Malaria, NTDs in Nigeria,” the CTRMNTD chief enjoined all stakeholders, including journalists, health professionals and citizens to become change agents in their own communities.
Oyibo expressed optimism, stressing that with shared commitment, “malaria cannot only be rolled back, but ultimately rolled out of Africa.”
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