The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has made a significant advancement in public health by launching the "Project 10 Million" (P10M) initiative. 

Officially introduced on October 30, 2024, at the FCT Secretariat in Abuja, this program is designed to offer free health screenings and vital medications for the management of hypertension and diabetes to more than 250,000 residents within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). 

Emphasizing the theme “Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” the initiative aims to screen 10 million Nigerians nationwide, with a particular focus on reaching 200 underserved communities in the FCT.

Bola Ajao, the Senior Special Assistant for Media at the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, noted that this collaborative effort involves the FCT, the Forum of Commissioners for Health, the Nigeria Governors Forum, the Federal Ministry of Health, and various development partners. 

With a strong emphasis on early detection and prevention, P10M serves as a pioneering model for tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria, enhancing healthcare access, and promoting a healthier population.

A Proactive Approach to Health Management

Non-communicable diseases, including hypertension and diabetes, are often referred to as “silent killers.” The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies these conditions as significant contributors to global mortality rates, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Nigeria is experiencing a rise in undiagnosed cases of hypertension and diabetes, which are leading to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, underscored the significance of individuals being aware of their blood pressure and blood sugar levels. 

“Equipping people with this information is essential for both prevention and management,” he stated during the launch event. 

Through the P10M initiative, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) aims to bridge healthcare access gaps, ensuring that even the most vulnerable groups receive necessary support. By focusing on high-risk populations and deploying healthcare workers to accessible locations, P10M is working to eliminate barriers to healthcare services.

Screenings are being organized in various community settings, including workplaces, markets, religious centers, garages, and farms across the six area councils of the FCT, facilitating easier participation for residents. 

A Collaborative Effort 

P10M represents more than just an initiative from the FCTA; it is a partnership involving multiple stakeholders dedicated to enhancing healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. The project showcases a collaboration among state governments, health commissioners, and national organizations such as the Federal Ministry of Health. 

This collective strategy ensures effective resource allocation and the potential for scaling the initiative across all 36 states of Nigeria. Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, highlighted the significance of working together: “By collaborating, we can strengthen our efforts to decrease the rates of hypertension and diabetes.”

The project is supported by development partners whose contributions are essential for maintaining the distribution of free medications and offering technical assistance for screenings.

Tackling the Challenge of Non-Communicable Diseases

Non-communicable diseases pose a considerable challenge in Nigeria, often worsened by lifestyle choices such as unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, and stress, along with inadequate access to early diagnostic services.

Dr. Baba Gana Adam, the Permanent Secretary for the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, referred to hypertension and diabetes as “silent killers” that demand immediate attention.

He pointed out that many individuals are unaware of their health conditions until serious complications develop. Through initiatives like P10M, the FCTA seeks to promote proactive health management by emphasizing early detection, prevention, and treatment.

Empowering Communities Through Education

A key component of the P10M initiative is its focus on public health education. Wike and Dr. Fasawe have both highlighted the importance of increasing awareness about the risks associated with untreated hypertension and diabetes.

The initiative's slogan, “Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” motivates residents to take charge of their health by regularly monitoring their blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

To encourage broad participation, the program has utilized community-based approaches, forming partnerships with religious and traditional leaders, market associations, and grassroots organizations.

Media outlets have also been engaged to enhance the campaign's reach, ensuring that accurate information is disseminated throughout the FCT. This initiative works in conjunction with other health programs, such as the Renewed Hope Medical Palliative Initiative, which aims to reduce healthcare disparities by providing subsidized treatment and medication to vulnerable groups.

These initiatives collectively strive to foster a healthier and more knowledgeable community that emphasizes preventive healthcare rather than reactive solutions.

Free Treatment for At-Risk Populations

A key aspect of the P10M initiative is its commitment to offering free medications and treatments to the most at-risk populations. Through the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, eligible individuals will receive comprehensive healthcare services at no charge.

This provision includes initial medication supplies for those newly diagnosed and referrals to government health facilities for more severe health issues.

Such initiatives demonstrate the FCTA’s dedication to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. “Health is a fundamental right, and this campaign underscores our commitment to delivering accessible, preventive healthcare to every resident,” Minister Wike stated during the launch.

As the P10M initiative expands throughout the FCT and beyond, it serves as a model for other states to implement similar proactive health management approaches. By tackling the underlying causes of non-communicable diseases and emphasizing preventive care, the program has the potential to significantly alleviate the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes across the nation.