Victoria Mbangwa
As Nigeria marks World Tuberculosis Day 2025, First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu has called for a collective national effort to eliminate the disease. Emphasizing the theme of this year’s commemoration—”Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”—she urged government agencies, healthcare professionals, and citizens to take proactive steps in preventing, diagnosing, and treating tuberculosis (TB).
Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria. The First Lady stressed the need for political commitment and increased funding to expand access to free TB testing and treatment across the country.
“If you have a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever, please visit the nearest health facility,” Senator Tinubu advised. “TB is curable, and early treatment saves lives.”
As National and Global Stop TB Champion, she shared a personal connection to the fight against TB, recalling the loss of a close friend to the disease. Her experience, she said, highlights the devastating impact of undiagnosed and untreated TB on families and communities.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), TB remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases and is still among the top 10 causes of death globally. Although progress has been made, many cases go undiagnosed, fueling the disease’s continued spread.
Senator Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s TB response by working with both national and international partners. She called for greater investment in TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment programs, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind.
“Together, we can end TB,” she declared. “By committing, investing, and delivering, we can build a healthier, TB-free Nigeria.”
