Prof. Ali Pate Urges Healthcare Providers to Prioritize Asthma Education, Early Diagnosis,
…Says Inhaled Treatments Should be More Accessible to Nigerians
By Raphael Ekpang
Abuja (Core Reporters) The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, has called on healthcare providers in the country to prioritize Asthma education, early diagnosis and proper treatment protocols.
He made the call on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 in Abuja as Nigeria joined the global community to commemorate World Asthma Day. 2025.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is commemorating World Asthma Day 2025 with a call to action to make inhaled treatments more accessible.
He said, “Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions globally, including a significant number of Nigerians. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 data, Nigeria recorded 8,192 asthma-related deaths, accounting for 0.55% of total deaths, placing us 58th globally. These figures are a sober reminder of the urgent need for collective action to strengthen asthma prevention, diagnosis and, management in our country.
“In line with this year’s theme, “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for All,” the Federal Government has taken deliberate steps to reduce barriers to care and improve asthma outcomes through the following strategic interventions:”
Prof. Pate said the government is working on developing and implementing national policies for asthma control and management, strengthening primary healthcare services* for asthma care, especially in underserved communities and Integrating asthma management* into primary health care services through the Nigeria Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control (NIG-PEN)
However, the Ministry is urging Pharmaceutical companies to increase availability of affordable inhalers. Civil society and media to raise awareness and fight stigma around asthma. While Communities and families should support those living with asthma and promote asthma-friendly environments
These actions reflect our strategic alignment with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and our commitment to Universal Health Coverage, where no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality, affordable healthcare.
According to the coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, “Our goal is to ensure that breathing freely is a right, not a luxury, and that every Nigerian has access to quality, affordable healthcare.
