The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for urgent, collective action to combat tuberculosis (TB), describing the disease as a persistent and deadly public health threat in Nigeria and across vulnerable communities worldwide.
In a statement on Tuesday to mark World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on 24 March and led by the World Health Organisation, Soludo stressed that ending TB requires stronger commitment, smarter strategies and sustained community engagement.
Aligning with this year’s theme, “Yes! We can end TB,” she underscored the critical role of national leadership, increased investment and grassroots participation in accelerating progress against the disease.
“Tuberculosis remains a major health threat in our society today, with thousands of people and families severely affected,” she said, warning that mortality rates from the contagious illness has remained worrisome
She said, “Ending TB is possible, but the responsibility lies on all of us to take smarter and more sincere actions.”
Soludo highlighted that diagnosis and treatment for TB are available free of charge in public health facilities and many private hospitals in Nigeria, describing access to care as “closer than ever.”
She urged individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood or phlegm, fever, night sweats, fatigue or unexplained weight loss.
“Don’t hesitate,” she said. “Together in action, we can end TB deaths in our communities.”
Beyond medical intervention, Soludo emphasised the importance of preventive health and overall wellbeing, encouraging individuals to adopt a holistic approach that includes physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
“A healthy body is the foundation of a productive life,” she noted, urging people to nourish themselves well to think well, move well, work well, love well and sleep well.
Her message reinforces growing global calls for coordinated action, innovation in diagnostics and community-led responses to finally eliminate one of the world’s oldest and deadliest infectious diseases.