The National Institute of Public Health and Infectious Diseases (NIPHD), Saye in Zaria, conducted free tuberculosis screening and testing as part of activities marking the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day.
The institute also offered free medical consultations, benefiting residents from various communities while promoting early detection, treatment, and awareness of the impact of tuberculosis.
World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on March 24, aims to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social, and economic effects of tuberculosis. The day also promotes global efforts toward prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of the disease.
The outreach programme took place at the Primary Health Care Centre, Chikaji, in Sabon Gari Local Government Area, where a large number of residents gathered on Sunday to access the free medical services.
During the exercise, the institute provided free tuberculosis screening, diagnostic testing, and consultations to both adults and children, with the goal of encouraging early detection and prompt treatment.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the institute, Dr. Abdullahi-Dalhatu Aminu, said tuberculosis remains both preventable and curable, especially when cases are detected early and properly managed by health professionals.
He emphasised that tuberculosis should not be regarded as a death sentence, noting that timely diagnosis, adherence to prescribed medications, and proper medical supervision significantly improve chances of full recovery.
Dr. Aminu explained that World Tuberculosis Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to intensify awareness, strengthen early detection strategies, and ensure proper treatment to reduce the global burden of tuberculosis.
He added that the institute remains committed to continuous public health interventions, including community engagement, routine screening programmes, and improving access to quality healthcare services for tuberculosis prevention and treatment across the country.
The Director-General also warned against the stigma associated with tuberculosis. He urged individuals experiencing symptoms such as persistent cough to seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications and further spread within communities.
He called on members of the public to actively support ongoing awareness campaigns by educating others on tuberculosis prevention, symptoms, and treatment, thereby contributing to the overall reduction of the disease burden.
Also speaking, the Head of Hospital Services, Dr. Umma Aliyu, highlighted both the clinical and social dimensions of tuberculosis. She noted that common symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, fever, and unexplained weight loss.
Dr. Aliyu advised residents not to ignore early warning signs and urged them to seek prompt medical care. She also encouraged compassion, understanding, and community support for individuals affected by tuberculosis.
She reassured the public that effective and accessible treatment for tuberculosis is readily available, adding that early diagnosis and strict adherence to treatment significantly increase the chances of complete recovery.
The outreach programme was a major highlight of the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day activities. It reinforced ongoing efforts to expand access to healthcare services and promote early diagnosis across underserved communities.
