Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mariam Ileyemi
Published on 2024-03-29 07:38:15
Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, has made a significant contribution to the fight against Tuberculosis in Nigeria. Through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), she donated N1 billion to support efforts to end the Tuberculosis epidemic in the country by 2030. This donation was announced during her investiture as the Global and National Stop TB Champion at the State House in Abuja. The event also saw other first ladies from the 36 states being honored as Stop TB champions in their respective states.
In her remarks, Mrs. Tinubu expressed her dedication to the cause, citing the unfortunate loss of one of her staff members, Daniel, to the disease. She emphasized the need to break the silence around Tuberculosis and called for compassion and understanding to end stigma and discrimination.
Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the lungs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), TB claimed the lives of 1.3 million people in 2022, including 167,000 individuals living with HIV. Nigeria is ranked sixth globally and first in Africa in terms of the high burden of TB.
Mrs. Tinubu commended the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in raising awareness about TB and improving case finding, treatment, and coverage of the disease. She recognized the collaborative efforts of stakeholders at national, regional, and global levels following the adoption of the Political Declaration at the United Nations High-Level Meeting in 2023.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, highlighted the government’s initiatives to combat TB, including equipping Primary Health Care Centers with essential facilities and personnel to deliver comprehensive services, especially in rural and underserved areas. Efforts to expand TB treatment services and diagnostic capabilities were also underscored.
Lucica Ditiu, Executive Director of Global Stop TB Partnership, urged Nigeria to mobilize domestic resources for addressing the TB burden. She praised Nigeria’s progress in TB notification rates and emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to sustain and build upon these achievements.
The fight against TB in Nigeria necessitates a multi-sectoral approach involving collaboration with the private sector and communities. The commitment of leaders, such as Mrs. Tinubu and President Bola Tinubu, is crucial in achieving the goals outlined in the Political Declaration and ensuring a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.
In conclusion, the collective effort to end TB in Nigeria requires continued support, awareness building, and advocacy. By amplifying awareness, reducing stigma, and enhancing access to treatment, the country can make significant strides towards eradicating the TB epidemic by 2030.
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