The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) through robust multi-sectoral collaborations, private-sector engagement, and international partnerships.
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, gave the assurance at the National Tuberculosis (TB) Conference, on Tuesday in Abuja,
Pate lauded ongoing efforts to mobilise resources and deploy innovative strategies to combat the TB epidemic in Nigeria.
He stressed the unifying power of health initiatives, stating, that health is one element that brings people together, regardless of region, language, or socioeconomic status.
“Our collective effort is essential to build a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Highlighting the burden of TB on women, children, and marginalised communities, the minister called for a gender-responsive and inclusive approach to TB prevention and treatment.
He also acknowledged the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative, which has injected one billion Naira into the fight against TB, catalysing national efforts.
One of the major announcements during the event was the commitment of private sector actors to invest up to 25 million dollars in TB initiatives.
Pate commended organisations like the Dangote Foundation for expanding health insurance coverage for employees and urged other private sector stakeholders to follow suit.
“The private sector is a key partner in this fight. From factories to banking and oil industries, employers can help identify, diagnose, and treat those affected by TB,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing collaborations with international Organisations, including USAID, WHO, and the Global Fund, while calling for increased domestic resource allocation in the 2025 budget to address TB and other priority health challenges.
“The weeklong activities include discussions on health financing, conferences featuring Nigerian youth and scholars presenting innovative research, and learning exchanges with countries like South Africa, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
He concluded with a rallying call to all stakeholders, saying, “No single institution can tackle TB alone. Together, we can expand initiatives, implement cutting-edge treatments, and achieve a TB-free Nigeria.”
The Executive Director, Stop TB Partnership, Dr Lucica Ditiu said that Nigeria was making remarkable progress in the fight against TB through its local leadership, commitment, and the efforts of healthcare workers, communities, and political leaders.
Ditiu said that Nigerian leaders, including the First Lady and ministers, were taking charge of the TB response, demonstrating that the drive to combat TB is coming from within the country rather than external forces.
“This is a model of self-reliance and inspiration for others,” she said.
She said that the leap from detecting 36 per cent to 80 per cent of TB cases in recent years, were attributed to the tireless work of healthcare workers, community members, and TB survivors.
“These groups are recognised as the backbone of progress despite facing numerous challenges,” she said.
To sustain and amplify this success, she called for increased financing and support from all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and international partners.
“This collaborative approach is essential for ending TB, not just in Nigeria, but also as a contribution to global health efforts,” she said.
Stakeholders at the conference included political leaders, NGOs, and private sector representatives.
They stressed the need for sustained partnerships, innovative approaches, and strong political will to end TB and HIV in Nigeria.
As Nigeria continues its public health journey, experts were optimistic that ongoing collaboration between government agencies, international partners, and local communities would pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future.
NAN
