UNICEF and FG Call Media to Combat Neglected Diseases

The UNICEF has urged journalists and media outlets throughout Nigeria to play a key role in promoting changes in behavior aimed at eradicati...

The UNICEF has urged journalists and media outlets throughout Nigeria to play a key role in promoting changes in behavior aimed at eradicating Neglected Tropical Diseases within the nation.

The head of the UNICEF Field Office in Bauchi, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, issued the call during a Media Dialogue on the eradication of Neglected Tropical Diseases that took place on Thursday in Bauchi State.

Rafique stated that poverty, inadequate sanitation, and limited access to clean water are key factors in the spread of NTDs, emphasizing that communities need to embrace cleaner and healthier practices to disrupt the cycle of illness and poverty.

"Poverty represents a harmful cycle involving poor health and lack of resources. Individuals who are impoverished and reside in unsanitary conditions are more prone to illness. When they become sick, they are unable to work, which further intensifies their poverty," she stated.

Although acknowledging the adverse effects these illnesses have on children's growth, development, and work capacity, she highlighted the importance of better sanitation and hygiene measures.

She called on both the government and local communities to focus on providing clean water, effective waste disposal, and maintaining hygiene within homes.

"We need to enhance our healthcare system and concentrate on WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiatives. The media serves as the eyes, ears, and voice of the public — you have the power to raise awareness, shape behavior, and make a difference. Changing behaviors is challenging, but the media has a significant impact in bringing it about," she said.

Rafique also cautioned against open defecation and contaminated water sources, pointing out that polluted rivers put communities at risk of diseases like River Blindness and other infections spread by flies and mosquitoes.

"When we keep flies and mosquitoes away, we can stop various diseases such as malaria and dengue. Good sanitation, access to clean water, and prompt medical attention are essential in preventing these conditions," she added.

Additionally, Hauwa Abubakar, the North-East Zonal Coordinator of the NTD Control Programme under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, referred to NTDs as illnesses linked to poverty that continue to pose a significant public health challenge, especially in rural areas.

"NTDs are diseases that can be prevented and treated, primarily impacting the poor and those in rural regions. If not addressed, they can lead to disability, physical deformities, and even death," she explained.

She urged media professionals to back awareness initiatives by spreading correct information regarding the prevention and management of NTDs, noting that education continues to be one of the most powerful methods for lessening the impact of these diseases in Nigeria.

The conversation in the media united medical professionals, communication experts, and reporters to enhance cooperation in the fight against NTDs and boost public health results in Bauchi State and further afield.

In November 2025, PUNCH Healthwisereported tA United Nations Children’s Fund consultant, Dr Hilary Adie, highlighted poverty, inadequate access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, and limited social behavioral change as major obstacles in eradicating Neglected Tropical Diseases in Nigeria.

Adie made this statement during a media discussion on the eradication of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) in Gombe State, hosted by UNICEF, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and MERCK.

In October 2025, PUNCH Online stated that the FG, working together with UNICEF, urged media organizations and professionals in the country to collaborate with it in safeguarding therights of children.

The government, via the Federal Ministry of Information and Orientation, highlighted that journalists have a crucial role in forming public perception, affecting opinions, and safeguarding the most vulnerable individuals in our community, especially children, which is why there is cooperation with the media.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).