FG Affirms Unwavering Commitment to End TB Epidemic in Nigeria

Last updated Mar 30, 2024

By Edward Samuel, Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, under the leadership of Professor Muhammad Ali Pate has reiterates the government’s resolve to eradicate Tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria.

At the World TB Day commemoration held at the State House Conference Hall, Aso Villa, Abuja, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was honored as both Global and National Stop TB Champion, emphasizing the nation’s dedication to combating the disease.

In a statement by Director, Information, Deworitshe Patricia, Professor Pate emphasized the annual event’s significance in raising public awareness about TB and evaluating progress towards the End TB Strategy and Sustainable Development Goals.

“With TB being the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda focuses on revolutionizing Nigeria’s health sector to address this pressing issue”. He said.

“Efforts to combat TB include the expansion of TB treatment services to over 22,000 health facilities, the establishment of a strong specimen referral network, and targeted actions to address the social determinants of TB such as poverty and limited healthcare access”. He added.

Prof. Pate said the engagement of the First Lady as the Global and National Stop TB champion aims to prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations through economic empowerment and improved access to quality healthcare services, enhancing efforts to tackle TB’s social determinants.

The Ministry assures the implementation of an efficient, resilient, and equitable health system to improve outcomes for all diseases, including TB, AIDS, and Malaria. “Collaboration with partners has resulted in a record of over 360,000 TB cases notified in 2023, marking significant progress in TB control efforts.

Following her investiture, the First Lady reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the fight against TB, announcing a donation of N1 billion from the Renewed Hope Initiative to support efforts to end the TB scourge by 2030.

The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa highlighted the multisectoral approach to TB control, emphasizing the need for collaboration across various sectors to address TB drivers effectively.

The Country Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, stressed the importance of a dedicated and fully funded budget to facilitate TB activities, ensuring the provision of necessary commodities and reducing the burden on affected communities.

“The collective efforts of the government, stakeholders, development partners, and individuals are crucial in intensifying the fight against TB and ensuring access to quality diagnosis and treatment services for all Nigerians”. He said.