Bukola Afeni
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has affirmed her commitment towards strengthening the community-based health care system to reach the most vulnerable populations and enhance funding and partnerships to scale up TB control programs in the country.
She disclosed this during the 2025 World TB Day Community Outreach at Sauka Community Abuja.
Senator Oluremi, who is a global and National Stop TB Champion, said the government cannot do this alone.
” Ending TB by 2030 is a collective responsibility. We need traditional and religious leaders, legislators, the youth, healthcare workers, private sector organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations (CBOs) and international partners to join forces in this fight.
“I reaffirm my commitment to addressing the scourge of TB in our nation. I will continue to advocate for increased funding and policy reforms to strengthen TB control efforts, and mobilize resources and partnerships to support TB awareness and treatment programs.
She further pledged an additional sum of One Billion Naira from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) towards the fight against Tuberculosis in Nigeria.
In the same vein, she promised to continue to amplify the voices of TB survivors fight against stigma and discrimination, and ensure that women, children, and marginalized groups have equal access to TB care.
“I encourage every Nigerian to join in this fight. TB is curable, and early detection saves lives. Let us work together to remove the stigma surrounding TB, encourage testing, and support those affected.”
Senator Oluremi also urged Nigerians to encourage their loved ones to go for regular TB testing.
“TB is airborne and since it is contagious, I urge every one of us to get tested, know your TB status, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. If you have a persistent cough for more than two weeks, do not ignore it but rather seek medical help immediately”, she said.
The Honourable Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, also reiterated the federal government’s commitment to eradicating tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria.
He emphasized that “TB remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, but we are determined to overcome it.”
“We have made significant progress in TB eradication, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that all Nigerians have access to quality TB diagnosis, treatment, and care,” he said.
The minister noted that Nigeria ranks first in Africa and sixth globally among high-burden TB countries, with an estimated 499,000 Nigerians developing TB in 2023.
He, however, expressed optimism that with the support of partners and stakeholders, Nigeria can end TB.
“I want to especially thank our esteemed partners, including the WHO, Global Fund, and the US Government, for their continuous support in our TB control efforts,” Dr. Salako said.
He also commended the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her generous donation of N1 billion to the TB programme.
“We will continue to work together to make Nigeria TB-free,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government to providing quality healthcare for all, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.
“This aligns with the second pillar of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative; our strategic blueprint for transforming the health sector.:
She urged every member of the Sauka community to take full advantage of the TB services available.
“If you or anyone you know has been coughing for two weeks or more, experiencing unexplained weight loss, fever, or night sweats, please step forward for screening. TB is curable, and with early detection, we can halt its spread and save lives”, she said.
