First Lady reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to end tuberculosis by 2030

By Kunle Sanni –

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to ending tuberculosis (TB) by 2030, stressing that the sustainability of the country’s TB response cannot depend solely on external assistance.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the 39th Stop TB Partnership Board Meeting held in Manila, Philippines, Mrs. Tinubu said Nigeria is strengthening domestic systems, reducing reliance on donor funding, and ensuring that national efforts to combat TB remain resilient and effective.

She noted that despite temporary shifts in support from some financing partners, Nigeria’s fight against TB has remained strong through steadfast leadership, community engagement, and strategic national coordination. According to her, this reflects the country’s ownership and the commitment of Nigerians driving the response forward.

The First Lady emphasized that universal health coverage begins at the community level, adding that TB remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.

She said TB claims close to 1.3 million lives each year, with Nigeria among the eight countries that account for two-thirds of global cases. An estimated 479,000 Nigerians developed TB in 2023, with more than 150,000 deaths recorded.

“These are not just numbers — they are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters whose lives compel us to act with urgency and compassion,” Mrs. Tinubu said.

Reiterating her role as a Global and National Stop TB Champion, she pledged Nigeria’s continued alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

She commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, and other stakeholders for their dedication in expanding access to TB testing, diagnosis, and treatment. She also urged greater use of technology, echoing Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, Chair of the Stop TB Partnership Board, who called for artificial intelligence to enhance TB testing and treatment.