Nigeria’s TB Champion Calls for United Action

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has issued a powerful call for collective commitment and increased investment to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB), one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.

Speaking on World TB Day 2025 with the theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, the National and Global Stop TB Champion emphasized that defeating TB requires a united front from all stakeholders.

Free Treatment Available Nationwide

Senator Tinubu highlighted that TB treatment in Nigeria remains completely free, urging citizens to take advantage of this critical healthcare service:

“I urge you to approach any hospital for free tests and treatments. The TB menace can be conquered in Nigeria and globally if necessary actions are taken towards combating it.”

The First Lady stressed that early detection and treatment are crucial, advising Nigerians experiencing persistent coughs lasting more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever to seek immediate medical attention.

Africa’s Progress Against TB

According to the WHO Global TB Report 2024, the African region has made significant strides:

• 42% reduction in TB deaths since 2015
• 24% decline in cases over the same period
• Treatment coverage increased from 55% to 74%

However, Nigeria remains a major concern, ranking first in Africa and sixth globally among high-burden TB countries. In 2023 alone, 499,000 Nigerians developed TB, though treatment coverage reached 79% in 2024.

A Personal Commitment to Eradication

Senator Tinubu framed the fight against TB as both a policy priority and personal mission:

“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.”

The First Lady concluded by emphasizing that victory against TB is achievable through united efforts, strategic investments, and widespread delivery of life-saving interventions to all affected communities.