WHO Urges Nigeria to Strengthen Efforts in Eliminating Viral Hepatitis

Abuja Nigeria — The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on the Nigerian government to strengthen its commitment and accelerate efforts toward the elimination of viral hepatitis a public health threat that continues to impact millions worldwide including in Nigeria.

In a recent statement, WHO highlighted that despite significant progress in combating infectious diseases viral hepatitis remains a silent epidemic causing severe liver disease including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Nigeria with one of the highest burdens of hepatitis B and C infections in Africa faces considerable challenges in diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

The WHO urged Nigerian health authorities to scale up awareness campaigns improve access to hepatitis testing, and expand vaccination coverage particularly for hepatitis B.

The agency also emphasized the importance of integrating hepatitis services into the existing health system to ensure timely identification and management of cases.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti WHO Regional Director for Africa stressed that eliminating viral hepatitis is not only a public health imperative but also essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. She further noted that with increased political will resource allocation and community engagement Nigeria can significantly reduce new infections and hepatitis-related deaths.

The WHO’s call to action aligns with Nigeria’s national strategic plan on viral hepatitis, which aims to achieve a 90% reduction in new infections and a 65% reduction in hepatitis-related mortality by 2030. However gaps remain in funding infrastructure and trained personnel, which the government is urged to address promptly.

Health experts and civil society groups have welcomed the WHO’s appeal, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts involving government agencies, healthcare providers and communities to effectively combat viral hepatitis.

The Nigerian Ministry of Health has acknowledged the WHO’s recommendations and reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying interventions in partnership with international organizations and stakeholders to improve hepatitis control programs.

Viral hepatitis caused primarily by hepatitis B and C viruses, is preventable and treatable. Early detection and consistent treatment have been proven to dramatically improve outcomes underscoring the importance of expanded healthcare access and patient education.