The health Stakeholders have been urged to sustain and scale up gains in integrating mental health and disability inclusion into the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
This call was made during the closeout event of the MH-CAP-NTD project in Abuja, implemented by a CBM-led consortium in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health.
The project, which placed mental health and psychosocial support at the heart of NTD interventions, was described as ‘a landmark effort in building inclusive health systems responsive to the needs of vulnerable populations.”
The CBM Global Country Representative, Abdulazeez Musa, described the conclusion of the project as “a celebration of collective achievement,” citing collaboration, technical expertise, and shared commitment as the pillars of its success.
He praised the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for its leadership and strategic guidance in shaping a vision that prioritizes the mental health and psychosocial well-being of NTD-affected communities.
Musa outlined some of the project’s key achievements, including the strengthening of frontline health workers, development of inclusive community-based interventions, and heightened awareness of the psychosocial burden of NTDs.
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“These achievements are a testament to what is possible when we centre the voices and experiences of affected persons in our work,” he said.
Musa further stressed that sustained investment in behavioural change and inclusive practices is essential to maintaining momentum and ensuring dignity and rights for all persons, especially those living with disabilities and NTDs.
Commending the success of the MH-CAP-NTD project, the NTD Programme Officer, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Kelechi Edokobi, described it as a clear demonstration of how mental health can be effectively integrated into Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) care.
Edokobi noted that the initiative has improved the lives of people affected by NTDs while helping to reduce stigma.
She added that evidence from the University of Jos assessments provides a strong basis for shaping policy and guiding future health programmes.
Edokobi further appreciated the contribution of the project funder, Anesvad, alongside partners, government agencies, civil society, and communities who played key roles in achieving success.
“As we conclude this phase, it is my hope that the lessons and outcomes from the MH-CAP-NTD project will inspire broader adoption and sustainability, ensuring that mental health becomes an essential part of all NTD interventions in Nigeria,” Edokobi stated.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Mfawa Usani commended the organisers, development partners, and stakeholders for their role in improving the lives of vulnerable populations.
She noted that “the Ministry’s mandate humanitarian response, social protection, poverty alleviation, and resilience building aligns directly with mental health care for persons affected by NTDs.”
According to her, such persons face multiple challenges, including physical disabilities, social stigma, discrimination, and economic hardship, often worsened by untreated mental health conditions.
Mrs. Usani stressed that addressing the mental and psychosocial dimensions of NTDs is vital for breaking the cycle of poverty and ill health.