Caritas Nigeria, the humanitarian branch of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, has announced a collaboration with the Federal Government and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to deliver HIV and Tuberculosis treatment services, along with counseling, to more than 37,000 Nigerians.
This announcement was made by Rev. Fr. Peter Babangida Audu, the Executive Secretary of Caritas Nigeria, during a symposium celebrating the organisation’s 15th anniversary on Thursday.
Fr. Audu highlighted that this healthcare initiative is part of a larger 15-year journey through which Caritas Nigeria has impacted over 18 million individuals via 117 humanitarian and development programs implemented across all 36 states of the country.
“Our organisation has consistently played a pivotal role in enhancing Nigeria’s health systems. Over the years, we have collaborated with the Nigerian government, the US CDC, and other partners to foster a healthier future for countless Nigerians,” he stated.
He stressed that the organisation’s efforts extend beyond numbers, sharing a poignant story from a distant village.
“A young mother named Grace once brought her severely malnourished child to a Caritas-supported clinic. The child was weak, and hope seemed distant.
“Several months later, Grace returned, beaming with joy, carrying a vibrant and healthy child. She told our team, ‘Caritas restored my son’s life and renewed my hope.’ Such stories remind us that behind every figure lies a person, a family, and a future,” he reflected.
Nevertheless, Fr. Audu cautioned about the evolving global funding environment, noting a decline in traditional donor contributions.
He proposed a three-pronged sustainability strategy aimed at broadening funding sources by involving the private sector, enhancing institutional transparency and capacity, and empowering communities to become self-sufficient.
“Sustainability means more than just avoiding dependence; it’s about enabling individuals and communities to thrive independently once our support concludes,” he emphasized.
Expressing appreciation to partners and staff, Audu described the 15-year milestone as a foundation for even greater achievements ahead.
“With ongoing collaboration, we anticipate the next 15 years will bring deeper impact, stronger alliances, and lasting transformation throughout Nigeria,” he affirmed.
In his opening remarks, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, Archbishop of Lagos and Chairman of the Caritas Nigeria Board, praised the organisation for faithfully executing its mission.
“Whenever the Bishops’ Conference reviews Caritas’ reports, we take pride in knowing this agency is fulfilling its founding purpose: to continue the work of Jesus by bringing abundant life to all, especially the most vulnerable,” he remarked.
Adding his commendation, Rev. Fr. Micheal Banjo, General Secretary of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, described Caritas Nigeria as a “living embodiment of the Latin term caritas, meaning love or charity.”
“From the expansive northern plains to the lush southern forests, you have led the charge in responding to humanitarian crises,” he concluded.
