The First Lady and National and Global Stop Tuberculosis Champion, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has called for a collective commitment and investment to combat tuberculosis in Nigeria.
In her message for the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day, she emphasized the theme of this year’s celebration: “Yes! We can end TB: Commit, invest, deliver,” urging stakeholders to invest in free TB treatment to save lives.
Sen. Tinubu reassured Nigerians that TB treatment is available at no cost and encouraged anyone with persistent coughs, unexplained weight loss, or other related symptoms to seek immediate testing and treatment.
Highlighting the curable nature of tuberculosis, the first lady reiterated the need for urgency in addressing the disease, which remains a significant health threat when left undiagnosed and untreated.
Sen. Tinubu reflected on the personal impact of losing a friend to TB, reinforcing her dedication to this cause.
She noted that the fight against TB is not merely a policy issue but a personal mission, urging Nigerians to take TB seriously and access the necessary treatments.
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“We are reminded 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.
“As the National and Global Stop TB Champion, I take this responsibility with deep personal commitment. The fight against TB is not just a policy issue, it is personal.
“I have felt the pain of the loss of a friend. This is just a painful reminder that TB remains a major health threat, especially when it goes undiagnosed and untreated.
“We must not allow more lives to be lost to a disease that is both preventable and curable.
Together, Yes! We can end TB. Let us commit, invest, and deliver on this promise for a healthier and TB-free Nigeria,” Sen. Tinubu said.
World Health Organization (WHO) data, indicates a notable decline in TB deaths in Africa, although challenges remain in significantly lowering the disease burden.
From 2015 to 2023, TB deaths decreased by 42 percent and cases by 24 percent, attributed to enhanced case detection and treatment efforts.
In 2023, Nigeria reported 499,000 new TB cases, with more than 400,000 treated in 2024, highlighting a treatment coverage of 79 percent.
Sen. Tinubu called on all to unite in this fight, affirming the belief that together, a healthier, TB-free Nigeria is achievable.