By Nafisat Makinde
In a bold move to tackle the country’s growing hepatitis burden, Nigeria has launched Project 365, a nationwide campaign aimed at eliminating the disease by 2030. The initiative was officially announced during a ministerial press briefing held at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s headquarters in Abuja.
Over 20 million Nigerians are currently living with hepatitis B and C infections, according to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate. The Project 365 initiative seeks to boost screening, diagnosis, vaccination, and treatment, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
“Nigeria can no longer bear the label of having the third-highest hepatitis burden globally. We have the science, the strategy, and now the will. We will act, boldly and with urgency, for a Nigeria free from the burden of viral hepatitis,” Professor Pate said.
Dr. Adebobola Bashorun added, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down is a call for breaking social and structural barriers to lifesaving services with implementation of a national framework aligned with SDG 3 and the Global Health Sector Strategy on Hepatitis.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed strong support for Nigeria’s renewed commitment to eliminating hepatitis. “We commend the focus on increasing domestic financing, reducing stigma, and promoting treatment access. Together, we can bring hepatitis down,” said Dr. Mya Sapal Ngon.
Mrs. Adaugo Ngwu of the National Orientation Agency pledged to support the effort, saying, “As the citizen engagement arm of the government, we are mandated to enlighten the people. We will support this effort by ensuring people understand the importance of testing, vaccination, and treatment.”
The event was attended by dignitaries including Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Dr. Godwin Ntadom, Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, Dr. Mya Sapal Ngon, Mrs. Adaugo Ngwu, and Mr. Chukwuemeka Agwuocha.
With Project 365, Nigeria signals its intent to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat, ensuring that access to care, protection, and dignity is not a privilege but a right for all. The country’s commitment to eliminating hepatitis is a significant step towards improving public health and reducing the economic burden of the disease. Let’s join hands in the fight against hepatitis! Get tested, get vaccinated, and support those affected by the disease. Together, we can make a difference and create a hepatitis-free Nigeria.
