Combatting Hypertension, Diabetes in Nigeria to Foster Healthier Population through Project 10Million

To combat hypertension and diabetes across Nigeria,

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) recently unveiled the Project 10 Million, P10M, initiative, an ambitious healthcare program designed under the theme “Know Your Number, Control Your Number”. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this project aims to screen 10 million Nigerians for blood pressure and blood sugar levels, provide free health screenings, improve healthcare access, reduce prevalence of non-communicable diseases, and as well as get medications to underserved communities

 The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has taken a bold step in advancing public health with the launch of the “Project 10 Million” (P10M) initiative. 

Officially unveiled on October 30, 2024, at the FCT Secretariat in Abuja, the program aims to provide free health screenings and essential medications for managing hypertension and diabetes to over 250,000 residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). 

Under the theme “Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” the initiative is poised to screen 10 million Nigerians across the country, including reaching 200 underserved communities within the FCT.

According to Bola Ajao, the SSA Media, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, this collaborative initiative brought together the FCT, the Forum of Commissioners for Health, the Nigeria Governors Forum, the Federal Ministry of Health, and development partners. 

With a significant focus on early detection and prevention, P10M stands out as a model for addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria, improve healthcare access and foster a healthier population.

 A Step Toward Proactive Health Management 

Non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes are often called “silent killers.” According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), these conditions are major contributors to mortality rates globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. 

Nigeria is no exception, with rising cases of undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes leading to severe health complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. 

 The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, highlighted the importance of knowing one’s blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

“Empowering individuals with this knowledge is a crucial step toward prevention and management,” he said at the launch event. 

Through P10M, the FCTA aims to address gaps in healthcare access, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations are not left behind. By targeting high-risk populations and deploying health workers to easily accessible locations, P10M is reducing barriers to healthcare. 

Screenings are being conducted in workplaces, markets, religious centres, garages, farms, and other community hubs across the six area councils of the FCT, making it easier for residents to participate. 

 A Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration 

 P10M is not just an FCTA initiative; it is a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders committed to improving healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. The project reflects a synergy between state governments, health commissioners, and national entities like the Federal Ministry of Health. 

 This united approach ensures that resources are pooled effectively and that the initiative can be scaled up across the 36 states of Nigeria. Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, emphasised the importance of collective action: “When we work together, we can amplify our efforts to reduce the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes.” 

 The project is also backed by development partners, whose contributions help sustain free medication distribution and provide technical support for screenings.  

Addressing the Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases 

Non-communicable diseases have become a significant challenge in Nigeria. These conditions are often exacerbated by lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and stress, alongside limited access to early diagnostic services. 

 The Permanent Secretary for the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, described hypertension and diabetes as “silent killers” that require urgent attention. 

He noted that many people remain unaware of their condition until severe complications arise. Through initiatives like P10M, the FCTA aims to shift the focus toward proactive health management by prioritising early detection, prevention, and treatment. 

 Empowering Communities Through Awareness 

 A significant aspect of the P10M initiative is its emphasis on public health education. To this end, Wike and Dr. Fasawe have both stressed the need for greater awareness of the dangers of untreated hypertension and diabetes.

 The initiative’s theme, “Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” encourages residents to take ownership of their health by monitoring their blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly.

 To foster widespread participation, the program has leveraged community-based strategies such as partnerships with religious and traditional leaders, market associations, and grassroots organisations. 

Media outlets have also been called upon to amplify the campaign, ensuring that accurate information reaches every corner of the FCT. The initiative complements other health programs, including the Renewed Hope Medical Palliative Initiative, which addresses healthcare disparities by providing subsidised treatment and medication for vulnerable populations. 

Together, these efforts aim to build a healthier, more informed community that prioritises preventive healthcare over reactive measures.

 Free Treatment for Vulnerable Populations 

 A standout feature of P10M is its focus on providing free medications and treatment to the most vulnerable groups. Under the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, individuals who meet specific criteria will receive comprehensive care at no cost. 

This includes initial medication supplies for newly diagnosed cases and referrals to government health facilities for more serious conditions.

 Such measures reflect the FCTA’s commitment to ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents, regardless of socioeconomic status. “Health is a fundamental right, and this campaign reflects our dedication to providing accessible, preventive healthcare to every resident,” Minister Wike affirmed during the launch. 

 As the P10M initiative continues to roll out across the FCT and beyond, it serves as a blueprint for other states to adopt similar proactive health management strategies. By addressing the root causes of non-communicable diseases and prioritising preventive care, the program has the potential to significantly reduce the burden of hypertension and diabetes nationwide.