About the Journal
Nigerian Journal of Parasitology is the official organ of the Parasitology and Public Health Society of Nigeria. The Journal is devoted primarily to pure and applied research and provides a medium for the rapid publication of investigations in all aspects of Parasitology. The Journal will publish original researches and technical studies carried out in the country, as well as works and documents from elsewhere which are of interest to Nigeria or empirical configuration.
Current Issue
Vol. 45 No. 1 (2024): Nigerian Journal of Parasitology
Editorial
ADVANCING PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH IN NIGERIA – A RENEWED HOPE Welcome to the March 2024 issue of the Nigerian Journal of Parasitology. As we embark on another year of scientific exploration and discovery, it is essential to reflect on the progress made in parasitological research in Nigeria and the challenges that lie ahead.
Nigeria faces significant health challenges owing to parasitic infections. Malaria, onchocerciasis, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis are among the most prevalent parasitic diseases in the country, affecting millions of people annually. These diseases not only cause immense suffering, but also pose a substantial economic burden on individuals and the healthcare system. Parasitic diseases, such as animal trypanosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, trichomoniasis, sarcocystosis, and water-borne parasitic infections, are emerging.
There has been a concerted effort by researchers, healthcare professionals, donor agencies and policymakers to address these challenges, by the establishment of control and elimination programmes. However, despite these efforts, challenges persist. Access to basic health care services, safe water, and sanitation remains a significant barrier, particularly in rural areas. Limited access to funds for research hinders the progress of scientific discoveries and implementation of effective control programs. As we move forward, it is imperative that the Nigerian government prioritise parasitology research as a renewed hope to address these challenges. A way forward is an executive bill for the establishment of the National Centre for Parasitology in Nigeria. This centre will provide guidance and policy formulation for combating emerging and re-merging parasitic diseases. The centre can generate revenue through collaboration with global health funders and provide advanced training and certification in parasitology, which is necessary for the next generation of parasitologists. Fostering multidisciplinary approaches that combine biomedical research, public health interventions, and social science perspectives is essential for developing comprehensive and sustainable solutions.
The Nigerian Journal of Parasitology is committed to supporting and disseminating high-quality research from Nigeria, which advances our understanding of tropical parasites and parasitic diseases of public health importance to inform evidence-based interventions. We encourage researchers to submit their work and contribute to the collective effort to combat parasitic infections not only in Nigeria but also worldwide. Together,we can make significant strides towards a future where parasitic diseases are no longer a major public health concern in Nigeria.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to parasitological research.
Sincerely,
Prof Uwem F. Ekpo
Editor-in-Chief
Nigeria Journal of Parasitology
Published:
2024-04-02
