As Nigeria join the global community to commemorate World Asthma Day 2025, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has called on healthcare providers in the country to prioritize asthma education, early diagnosis, and proper treatment protocols.
In a statement, Professor Pate reaffirmed the government‘s commitment to reducing the burden of asthma and ensuring equitable access to life-saving inhaled treatments in Nigeria.
“Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions globally, including a significant number of Nigerians,” he noted.
While citing statistics from WHO, Professor Pate noted that Nigeria had recorded 8,192 asthma related deaths, accounting for 0.55% of total deaths, which had placed the country on 58th global index and emphasised he urgent need for collective action.
Speaking on the theme, “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for All,” Professor Pate outlined several strategic interventions by the Federal Government to improve asthma outcomes including;
Waiver of import tariff duties on essential pharmaceutical products, such as inhalers, to enhance affordability and access.
Development and implementation of national policies under the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Control Programme focused on asthma management.
Strengthening primary healthcare services as the frontline for asthma care, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
Integration of the Nigeria Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control (NIG-PEN) into primary health services, ensuring early diagnosis, routine screening, and sustained care.
“These interventions are part of our strategic alignment with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and our broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage—ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality and affordable healthcare,” Prof Pate stated.
