Nigeria has been identified as one of the countries with the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB) in Africa, accounting for 20 per cent of the continent’s TB cases, according to the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme.
This revelation has raised concerns among health experts, who note that the country’s high population and inadequate healthcare infrastructure exacerbate the spread of the disease.
A Public Health expert, Dr. Hananiya Dauda Samuel, in his presentation prepared by NTBLCP at a symposium to commemorate the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day, said TB remains one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide, with Nigeria ranking among the top 30 high-burden countries globally.
The symposium which was organised by Zankli Research Centre in collaboration with The Light Consortium to commemorate World TB Day focused on raising awareness about tuberculosis, its global impact, and the collective efforts needed to combat this public health challenge.
It also brought together researchers, healthcare professionals, students, and stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and strategies to end TB.
NTBLCP also attributed the high TB burden in Nigeria to factors such as poverty, malnutrition, and inadequate access to healthcare services.
“Nigeria’s high TB burden is also due to the country’s failure to prioritize TB control efforts. “We need to scale up our efforts to detect and treat TB cases, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited,” he said.
Also, the Early Career Researcher(ERC) at Light Consortium, Dr. Chukwuebuka Ugwu while speaking to journalists stressed the importance of an integrated approach to tuberculosis (TB) response, stating that it saves money and resources.
According to Ugwu, an integrated approach to healthcare means that when a patient visits a health facility, they receive comprehensive care that addresses all their health needs, not just the primary disease.
This approach, he explained, checks for infectious and non-infectious diseases, as well as psychological wellness.
Ugwu noted that an integrated approach to TB response is crucial, as it ensures that patients receive all the necessary services in one visit, rather than having to return multiple times.
This approach, he said, saves money and resources for both the patient and the healthcare system.
The expert also highlighted the importance of community-driven approaches to TB screening, citing a research study that showed significant improvements in TB knowledge and reductions in stigma among community members.
Ugwu said men in particular, require more time and effort to convince them to seek healthcare services, but once convinced, they can become powerful advocates for health messages within their families and communities.
He explained that men often have a higher burden of TB but are less willing to visit hospitals. Therefore, community-based outreach programs that target men in their gathering places, such as mosques, can be effective in increasing TB awareness and treatment.
Ugwu also stressed the need for healthcare workers to be sensitive to the needs and concerns of their patients, particularly men. He noted that men may have different schedules and priorities, such as providing for their families, and that healthcare workers should be flexible and accommodating to meet these needs.
He highlighted the importance of trust-building and follow-up in ensuring that patients adhere to their treatment regimens. He noted that patients, especially men, may require repeated reminders and encouragement to take their medications as prescribed.
“There is the need for policymakers and healthcare administrators to prioritize integrated approaches to healthcare, particularly in resource-constrained settings.”
He noted that integrated care can help reduce healthcare costs, improve health outcomes, and enhance the overall efficiency of healthcare systems.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Research Uptake Manager Manager at the Light Consortium, Toyosi Adekeye, raised concerns that tuberculosis, commonly referred to as TB, has been a longstanding health issue in Africa.
Adekeye who is also the Associate Professor in the Department of Community Medicine and Primary Health Care at Bingham University, Zankli Research Centre, Karu, Nasarawa state, noted that in the past, tuberculosis was often misdiagnosed as a mere coughing disease, leading to countless deaths due to lack of proper treatment.
“Unfortunately, this trend continues to this day, with many people in our immediate environment suffering from TB without even realizing it.”
“One of the most striking aspects of TB is that its treatment and diagnosis are completely free, provided one can access a treatment center. However, the lack of awareness about the disease remains a significant challenge.”
“Recently, we conducted an outreach program targeting adolescents, and the results were eye-opening. Many of the participants were unaware of the symptoms of TB, often mistaking them for common colds or sore throats.”
“This lack of awareness can have devastating consequences. When left untreated, TB can persist and worsen, eventually affecting every aspect of one’s life. It is not uncommon for people to seek treatment from chemists or rely on traditional remedies, only to discover later that they have been living with TB all along.”
“The importance of addressing TB cannot be overstated. It requires a collaborative effort across multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, and community outreach. By working together, we can raise awareness about TB, improve access to treatment, and ultimately save lives.”
“Today, we have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field about the effectiveness of TB treatment and the importance of partnerships in combating the disease. It is our hope that by the end of this symposium, participants will be more knowledgeable about TB and equipped to make a positive impact in their communities.”
“As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize TB awareness and education, particularly among vulnerable populations. By doing so, we can reduce the stigma associated with TB and ensure that those affected receive the treatment and support they need.”
“Ultimately, the fight against TB requires a collective effort. We must work together to raise awareness, improve access to treatment, and support those affected by the disease. By doing so, we can create a healthier, more compassionate society for all.” He said.
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