The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to eradicating tuberculosis in Nigeria, aligning with the global target of achieving a TB-free world by 2035.
It said, this renewed commitment is a testament to its efforts to combat the disease, which remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria.
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The Deputy Director of the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, Dr. Urhioke Ochuko, while speaking with the media at the 2025 World TB Day road walk and awareness campaign in Abuja, explained that the progress made in the fight against TB, citing improved case notification and treatment enrollment.
He said, “We’ve made good progress in terms of the fight against TB because in recent years, we’ve been able to improve TB case notification. Last year, we were able to enrol over 400,000 Nigerians on TB treatment out of about 500,000 estimated to have the disease.”
Ochuko, however, acknowledged that despite progress, there is still more work to be done, particularly in reaching the remaining 20% of undiagnosed TB cases.
He stressed the need for collective effort, using the slogan “We Fit Do Am ” to convey the importance of stakeholders working together to end the disease.
“The government has deployed digital X-ray machines to health facilities and communities across the country to enhance prompt screening and diagnosis of TB,” he said.
Ochuko expressed appreciation for the support of stakeholders, including the media, in raising awareness about TB and promoting the government’s efforts to eradicate the disease.
“The exercise, which aimed to get people aware of TB’s presence, emphasized that TB is treatable and curable, and encouraged Nigerians to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms.
“With the government’s renewed commitment and collective effort, Nigeria is working towards a TB-free future,” he added.
Also, the Executive Director of the Centre for Communication and Social Impact(CCSI), Babafunke Fagbemi, said, Nigeria is intensifying efforts to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote early detection and treatment of TB.
According to her, “This year’s theme, ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver’ highlights the urgent need for sustained advocacy, community engagement, and improved access to healthcare services to combat TB, which remains one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges.
“Nigeria is among the top 10 high-burden countries for TB worldwide. According to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, over 400,000 TB cases were recorded in 2024 alone.”
Fagbemi also noted that despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a leading cause of illness and death due to low awareness, delayed diagnosis, and barriers to treatment access.
She added that misconceptions and stigma surrounding the disease further discourage individuals from seeking timely care, contributing to its continued spread.
“In response to these challenges, the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) remains committed to advancing TB awareness and behaviour change through strategic advocacy, media engagement, and community-driven initiatives.
“By working closely with government agencies, health organizations, and media partners, CCSI ensures that accurate and impactful TB messages reach individuals and communities across Nigeria,” she said.
She disclosed that CCSI employs a multi-pronged approach to drive positive behaviour change, ensuring that individuals and communities are well-informed, empowered, and encouraged to take action.
“Some of CCSI’s key interventions include grassroots awareness campaigns, collaborating with local health workers, community influencers, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to spread awareness about TB prevention, symptoms, and treatment.
“Leveraging radio, television, digital platforms, and interpersonal communication, CCSI ensures that TB messages reach diverse audiences, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.
“Through targeted door-to-door sensitisation and motorized campaigns, CCSI connects vulnerable populations with healthcare services, promoting early detection and treatment adherence,” she added.
Speaking on the importance of social and behaviour change communication in tackling TB, the Executive Director, emphasised the role of social behaviour change and community engagement in shaping public perception and driving action.
“Ending tuberculosis in Nigeria requires changing the way people perceive TB, tackling stigma, and encouraging early diagnosis and treatment. Through strategic media advocacy and community engagement, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against TB.
“CCSI calls on stakeholders, policymakers, and community leaders to join in amplifying TB awareness and advocate for increased investment in TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services,” she stated.
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