FG Unveils Project 365 To Tackle Hepatitis, N17.9tn Loss

The Federal Government has unveiled Project 365, a nationwide initiative to eliminate hepatitis by 2030, citing annual economic losses between N10.3 trillion and N17.9 trillion due to the disease.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, announced the initiative yesterday in Abuja during the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day 2025, themed “Hepatitis Can’t Wait-Test. Treat. Eliminate.”
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viral infections, specifically hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.
It can also result from alcohol abuse, toxins, medications, or autoimmune diseases. Viral hepatitis, particularly types B and C, can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if left untreated.
Represented by Dr Godwin Ntadom, Director of Public Health, Pate said the campaign would prioritise mass screening, treatment, and vaccination across all communities.
He disclosed that 18.2 million Nigerians were living with hepatitis B, while 2.5 million had hepatitis C.
He said the silent nature of the disease, often mistaken for malaria, contributed to delayed diagnosis and high mortality.
Pate said as part of its elimination strategy, the government had created the Viral Elimination Fund (VEL) to support testing and treatment, improve access to affordable care, and reduce transmission rates.
He said pilot interventions had already begun in three correctional centres in Gombe State, with support from Abbott and other partners to improve testing and treatment in underserved populations.
“Free hepatitis testing was also launched at the National Assembly to encourage lawmakers and staff to get tested and support legislative funding for hepatitis elimination.
“Project 365 reforms include tax incentives and regulatory support to boost local pharmaceutical production of hepatitis diagnostics and medications, reducing reliance on imports.
“The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 and the World Health Organisation’s Global Health Sector Strategy, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to international health standards.”
Former Head of State and Nigeria’s Presidential Ambassador for Viral Hepatitis, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, in a goodwill message delivered by Mr Adeyeye Ajayi, Country Representative Gowon Foundation, urged Nigerians to unite against the disease.
He lauded the Federal Ministry of Health, WHO, healthcare workers, and partners for their efforts and called for collective action and public education to overcome stigma and misinformation.
National Coordinator African Centre for Disease Control (AfricaCDC), Dr Titilola Munkail,
Who was represented by Dr Oluyinka Olayemi, Technical Officer Country Programmes, expressed confidence in Nigeria’s leadership in eliminating hepatitis and other public health threats.
She reaffirmed Africa CDC’s support and highlighted Nigeria’s role in setting the pace for other African nations.