Introduction to the NCD Technical Working Group
The Lagos State Government has taken a significant step in addressing the rising prevalence of chronic diseases by inaugurating a Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Technical Working Group (TWG). This initiative aims to coordinate and enhance integrated efforts to reduce the burden of chronic illnesses across the state. The inauguration took place on Tuesday, November 5, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders.
Key Stakeholders Involved
The event was attended by policymakers, health professionals, development partners, and civil society organizations. According to the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the TWG will play a crucial role in guiding policy formulation, promoting system strengthening, and ensuring that NCD prevention and control are sustainably integrated into primary healthcare.
The group will also monitor progress, promote preventive health interventions, and mobilize resources to address major risk factors such as tobacco use, poor diet, physical inactivity, and harmful alcohol consumption.
Membership and Representation
Membership of the TWG includes representatives from various sectors, including the Ministry of Health, its agencies such as LASHMA and the Primary Health Care Board, health districts, development partners, academia, civil society, and patient advocacy groups. This broad representation ensures that the group can effectively address the multifaceted challenges posed by NCDs.
Perspectives from Officials
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Olusegun Ogboye, highlighted the importance of this initiative. He described it as a significant step forward in addressing the silent yet formidable threat of NCDs. According to Ogboye, these diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, cancer, mental health disorders, and chronic respiratory conditions, account for nearly 29% of deaths in Nigeria.
Ogboye emphasized that the TWG reflects the state government’s commitment to a coordinated, data-driven, and multi-sectoral response focused on prevention, early detection, treatment, and rehabilitation. He noted that the state is moving from reactive care to proactive prevention and from fragmented efforts to integrated health intelligence.
Commitment to Priorities
Ogboye reaffirmed the Sanwo-Olu administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda priorities, citing ongoing programs such as the Lagos State Health Scheme, LASAMBUS, and the State Hypertension and Diabetes initiatives. He called on TWG members to bring innovation and collaboration to the task ahead.
Role of the TWG
Dr Victoria Egunjobi, Director of Disease Control, described the inauguration as a transition from fragmented to unified action against NCDs. She stated that the TWG will serve as a “think tank” to support evidence-based programming and ensure equitable access to care for people living with chronic diseases.
Support from External Partners
Health Analyst at the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Vivian Nwakolobi, commended the Lagos State Ministry of Health for its leadership, pledging continued partnership in ongoing programs on diabetes, sickle cell disease, and cervical cancer.
Similarly, Dr Somefun Esther of UNFPA lauded the initiative as “a testament to what can be achieved through partnership,” warning that NCDs remain a silent epidemic but are largely preventable through coordinated interventions.
Collaboration from Professional Associations
Leaders of professional associations, including Dr Esegine Jonathan Oji of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Dr Saheed Babajide Kehinde of the Nigerian Medical Association, Lagos, pledged collaboration with the state. They emphasized public awareness, early detection, and affordable care as key to progress.
Recognition from Health Officials
NCD Program Coordinator, Dr Abosede Wellington, and other health officials, including Dr Modinat Akiolu and Dr Zainab Salisu, commended the initiative as a crucial step toward building sustainable systems for prevention, early detection, and management of chronic illnesses.
Conclusion
With the inauguration of the NCD Technical Working Group, Lagos State takes another decisive stride toward achieving Universal Health Coverage and tackling one of the 21st century’s fastest-growing health challenges.