2025 World Asthma Day: Prof Pate calls for early diagnosis, accessible inhalers

As Nigeria joins the global community to mark World Asthma Day 2025, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has urged healthcare providers across the country to prioritise asthma education, early diagnosis, and adherence to proper treatment protocols.

In a statement commemorating the day, Professor Pate reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing the burden of asthma and ensuring equitable access to life-saving inhaled treatments nationwide.

“Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions globally, including a significant number of Nigerians,” he noted.

Quoting statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), Professor Pate revealed that Nigeria recorded 8,192 asthma-related deaths, representing 0.55% of total mortality. This, he said, placed Nigeria 58th on the global index and highlighted the urgent need for coordinated action.

Commenting on this year’s theme, “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for All,” the Minister outlined several strategic interventions introduced by the Federal Government to improve asthma outcomes. These include:

The waiver of import duties on essential pharmaceutical products such as inhalers to improve affordability and access;

The formulation and implementation of national policies under the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Control Programme, specifically targeting asthma management;

The strengthening of primary healthcare services as the first line of response for asthma care, especially in underserved and rural communities;

The integration of the Nigeria Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control (NIG-PEN) into primary health services to promote early diagnosis, routine screening, and sustained care.

“These measures align with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and reflect our broader objective of achieving Universal Health Coverage. Our aim is to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality and affordable healthcare,” Professor Pate stated.

Ifeoma Nwovu