The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) through robust multi-sectoral collaborations, private sector engagement and international partnerships.
Speaking at the National Tuberculosis (TB) Conference on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate praised ongoing efforts to mobilise resources and deploy innovative strategies to combat TB in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Pate emphasised the unifying nature of health initiatives, stating, “Health is one element that brings all of us together, regardless of region, language, or socioeconomic status.
“Our collective effort is essential to build a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.”
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’s Renewed Hope Initiative, which has injected ₦2 billion into the fight against TB, catalysing national efforts.
A significant announcement during the event was the commitment of private sector actors to invest up to $25 million in TB initiatives. Pate lauded organisations such as 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 noted.
He also highlighted collaborations with international organisations, including USAID, WHO, and the Global Fund, while advocating 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: “No single institution can tackle TB alone. Together, we can expand initiatives, implement cutting-edge treatments and achieve a TB-free Nigeria.”
Executive director of the Stop TB Partnership, Dr. Lucica Ditiu commended Nigeria’s remarkable progress in the fight against TB, crediting local leadership, healthcare workers and community efforts.
Ditiu emphasised that Nigerian leaders, including the First Lady and ministers, are driving the TB response, demonstrating that the push to combat TB originates within the country rather than external forces.
“This is a model of self-reliance and inspiration for others,” she said.
She highlighted achievements such as the leap from detecting 36 per cent to 80 per cent of TB cases in recent years, attributing this success to the dedication 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.
‘Science Nigeria’ reports that stakeholders at the conference—including political leaders, NGOs and private sector representatives—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 expressed optimism that ongoing collaboration between government agencies, international partners and local communities will pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future.
