Article
The First Lady Calls for Collective Commitment to End TB Disease
The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has called for collective commitment and investment in ending the deadly Tuberculosis (TB) disease. She made the call in her message on Monday on the occasion of the 2025 TB Day with the theme: “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.
TB Treatment is Free in Nigeria
Tinubu, who is the National and Global Stop TB Champion, emphasized the importance of investing in free treatment for TB patients in order to save lives. She noted that TB treatment in Nigeria was free, urging people to approach any hospital for free tests and treatments.
TB Can Be Conquered
The First Lady stressed that TB can be conquered in Nigeria and globally if necessary actions are taken towards combating it. She urged those who have persistent coughs, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever to visit the nearest health facility for free TB testing and treatment.
The Fight Against TB is Personal
Tinubu emphasized that winning the fight against TB is possible when we unite our efforts, invest in proven solutions, and ensure the delivery of life-saving interventions to all who need them. She urged all Nigerians to take TB seriously and go for proper treatment immediately they suspect any symptoms or are directed to do so.
Global Efforts to Combat TB
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the African region recorded the steepest decline globally in tuberculosis (TB) deaths since 2015. Deaths from TB fell by 42 per cent between 2015 and 2023 while cases declined by 24 per cent over the same period. The reductions were mainly due to increased efforts by countries to reinforce case detection and provision of treatment, thus averting deaths.
Nigeria’s TB Burden
Nigeria ranked first in Africa and sixth globally among the 30 high burden tuberculosis countries. In 2023, 499,000 Nigerians developed TB, with more than 400,000 cases identified and treated in 2024, translating to 79 per cent treatment coverage.
Conclusion
The fight against TB requires collective commitment, investment, and effort. It is crucial that we invest in free treatment for TB patients and take necessary actions to combat this deadly disease. We can conquer TB in Nigeria and globally if we work together to combat it.
FAQs
- What is Tuberculosis (TB)?
TB is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. - What are the symptoms of TB?
Common symptoms include persistent coughs, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fever. - How can I get tested for TB?
You can visit the nearest health facility for free TB testing and treatment. - What is the current state of TB in Nigeria?
Nigeria ranked first in Africa and sixth globally among the 30 high burden tuberculosis countries, with 499,000 cases reported in 2023.
