The Anambra State Government has unveiled a mobile testing unit to strengthen tuberculosis (TB) detection and treatment, marking World Tuberculosis Day with a renewed drive to reach underserved communities.
The Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Obiageli Uchebo, at the unveiling ceremony in Awka, described the initiative as a practical step towards improving access to diagnosis, rather than a symbolic gesture.
Emphasising tuberculosis, Uchebo explained that it remains a preventable and curable disease but requires coordinated action across government, healthcare providers and communities to eliminate it.
“This is a call to action. Ending tuberculosis is achievable if all stakeholders work together to ensure early detection and consistent treatment.” The Permanent Secretary said.
The newly introduced tricycles will serve as mobile testing units, enabling health workers to extend services to remote and hard-to-reach areas where access to healthcare is often limited.
While reassuring residents, Uchebo noted that TB testing and treatment are provided free of charge at public health facilities across the state.
She highlighted the global context of the disease, noting that Nigeria is among eight countries accounting for nearly two-thirds of tuberculosis cases worldwide, while Africa carries roughly a quarter of the global burden due to factors such as HIV co-infection, poverty and malnutrition.
Also speaking, the State Programme Manager for TB, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control, Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, said the mobile units would significantly enhance outreach and early diagnosis, which are critical to controlling the spread of the disease.
He urged residents to seek medical attention promptly if they experience symptoms, stressing that early detection improves treatment outcomes and reduces transmission.
In a related message, the wife of the state governor, Nonye Soludo, described tuberculosis as a continuing public health concern affecting many families and called for sustained community engagement and awareness to combat the disease.
The initiative aligns with this year’s global theme, “Yes! We Can End TB,” reinforcing the role of local action in addressing a major international health challenge.