Publications

Nigeria faces a significant and evolving dual disease burden, characterized by the persistent prevalence of infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS, alongside a rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes. This dual burden places immense pressure on the country’s primary healthcare (PHC) system, which remains under-resourced and fragmented. This review examines strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s health system to effectively integrate the management of both infectious diseases and diabetes within PHC settings. Key approaches include institutionalizing integrated care through policy reforms, expanding task-shifting frameworks, leveraging digital health technologies, and promoting community-based screening and health promotion. The review also highlights the importance of sustainable financing, multidisciplinary care teams, and robust health information systems to support evidence-based decision-making and continuous patient monitoring. Addressing systemic barriers and fostering community participation are critical to ensuring equitable, patientcentered care. Implementing these integrated strategies can enhance health outcomes, optimize resources, and build a resilient health system capable of responding to Nigeria’s complex disease challenges.