The federal government has reaffirmed its dedication to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) through robust multi-sectoral collaborations, private-sector engagement, and international partnerships.
Health minister Ali Pate gave the assurance at the National Tuberculosis Conference on Tuesday in Abuja.
Mr Pate lauded ongoing efforts to mobilise resources and deploy innovative strategies to combat the TB epidemic in Nigeria. He stressed the unifying power of health initiatives, stating, that health is one element that brings people together, regardless of region, language, or socioeconomic status.
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.
One of the major announcements during the event was the commitment of private sector actors to invest up to $25 million in TB initiatives. Mr Pate commended organisations like the Dangote Foundation for expanding employee health insurance coverage and urged other private sector stakeholders to follow suit.
He highlighted ongoing collaborations with international Organisations, including USAID, WHO, and the Global Fund, while calling for increased domestic resource allocation in the 2025 budget to address TB and other priority health challenges.
Lucica Ditiu, executive director of Stop TB Partnership, said that Nigeria was making remarkable progress in the fight against TB through its local leadership, commitment, and the efforts of healthcare workers, communities, and political leaders.
Ms Ditiu said Nigerian leaders, including the First Lady and ministers, were taking charge of the TB response, demonstrating that the drive to combat TB comes from within the country rather than external forces.
She called for increased financing and support from all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and international partners, to sustain and amplify this success.
The stakeholders at the conference included political leaders, NGOs, and private sector representatives. They 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 were optimistic that ongoing collaboration between government agencies, international partners, and local communities would pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future.
