Experts have raised alarms over Nigeria’s growing tuberculosis (TB) epidemic, calling for urgent, coordinated efforts to end stigma and boost funding. Despite free TB treatment nationwide, stigma and delayed health-seeking hinder progress, fueling transmission and threatening Nigeria’s health goals.
Mayowa Joel, Executive Secretary of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, described the situation as alarming, with about 500,000 cases reported annually—making Nigeria the sixth highest globally and the highest in Africa. Joel stressed TB is preventable and curable but spreading due to misinformation and stigma that delay diagnosis and treatment. Over 57,000 new pediatric TB cases occur yearly, with many children missing preventive treatment.
Government leaders, including First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and Health Minister Muhammad Pate, are commended for pushing for Nigeria’s 2030 TB elimination goals, urging states to intensify efforts at local levels.
Ibrahim Tajudeen of the Global Fund emphasized the need for innovative financing as donor funds decline, urging states to increase domestic investments and reduce out-of-pocket costs to ensure no Nigerian denies essential TB care.
Ending TB stigma, improving funding, and strengthening healthcare systems are critical to beating this deadly disease in Nigeria.
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