Three southeastern Nigerian states joined forces Thursday to celebrate the life and legacy of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter in a poignant candlelight tribute, highlighting his transformative impact on public health across the nation. Officials from Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu states gathered alongside Carter Center representatives to commemorate the former president, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at age 100.
The solemn evening ceremony showcased Carter’s remarkable achievements in Nigeria through songs, biblical reflections, and video presentations documenting his visits and extensive public health initiatives. Dr. Lazarus Nweke, Assistant Director of the Carter Center, emphasized how the organization, founded by Carter and his late wife Rosalyn in 1982, has become deeply embedded in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Under Carter’s leadership, the Center established comprehensive health programs across nine Nigerian states, including Plateau, Nasarawa, Edo, Delta, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi. These initiatives have focused on combating devastating diseases such as river blindness, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis, significantly improving public health outcomes in these regions.
Perhaps one of Carter’s most significant achievements in Nigeria was spearheading the eradication of Guinea worm disease in Ebonyi and Enugu States by 2013, following a memorandum of understanding signed with the Nigerian government in 1988. This success story exemplifies the lasting impact of his humanitarian work in the country.
Dr. Afam Anaeme, Director of Public Health in Anambra State, praised the Carter Center’s comprehensive approach to healthcare, noting its contributions beyond mere drug donations to include vital scientific research. This multifaceted strategy has proven crucial in addressing various health challenges facing Nigerian communities.
The tribute coincided with Carter’s final funeral ceremony in Washington DC, marking a global moment of remembrance for the former president. The Nigerian celebration formed part of a broader series of memorial events, including services at the Carter Center in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Capitol in Washington DC.
Enugu State Health Commissioner, Prof Ikechukwu Obi, captured the essence of Carter’s legacy by describing him as an “icon of peace and emboldenment of humility.” His remarks underscored the importance of maintaining Carter’s humanitarian spirit in contemporary healthcare delivery and community service.
The Carter Center’s ongoing presence in Nigeria continues to drive significant improvements in public health outcomes. The organization’s work has led to substantial reductions in disease prevalence and enhanced healthcare accessibility in resource-limited areas, demonstrating the enduring impact of Carter’s vision for global health equity.
Since the announcement of Carter’s passing, the Center’s Enugu office has received numerous condolence visits from government officials, partners, and friends from state and local governments, reflecting the deep respect and appreciation for his contributions to Nigerian healthcare. Condolence registers opened across the nine partner states have provided opportunities for many to express their gratitude for Carter’s humanitarian legacy.
As the candlelight service concluded, participants reflected on how Carter’s dedication to improving global health has created lasting positive change in Nigerian communities. His legacy continues through the ongoing work of the Carter Center, which remains committed to eliminating neglected tropical diseases and strengthening healthcare systems across the nation.
