Yemi Obafemi
In commemoration of World TB Day 2026, the Debriche Health Development Centre (DHDC), in partnership with Stop TB Partnership CFCS 2025 and the FCT Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, launched a community outreach to bring tuberculosis awareness, screening, and testing directly to schools and communities across the Federal Capital Territory.
Teams visited the rural community of Karshi and the crowded settlements of Dutsen Alhaji in Bwari, offering TB awareness, immediate screening, and on-the-spot testing for people who might otherwise miss out on healthcare services.
The outreach screened over 800 individuals, including children and teachers. Among them, 69 were identified as presumptive TB cases and referred for further clinical investigation.
Those confirmed positive have been linked to life-saving treatment, care, and contact tracing.
“Every person with TB identified early represents a transmission chain broken and a proactive strike against drug-resistant TB. We are excited about the outcome of this intervention,” said Mrs. Deborah Ikeh, Executive Director of DHDC.
Dr. Titilayo Ilesanmi, Childhood TB Focal Person for the FCT TB Programme, said: “This work supports the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme targets for World TB Day 2026. We are glad to have partners like DHDC, ARFH, and KNCV Nigeria with us.”
The programme also educated school communities. Shafiratu Inua Adha, Head Teacher of Karshi Muslim Forum, said: “This programme is an eye-opener. We now understand TB, its signs, and the help available. People with TB should not be stigmatized. They are humans like us.”
