Abuja, Nigeria – With technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria is intensifying its efforts to close tuberculosis (TB) detection gaps, expand access to testing and treatment, and strengthen services for vulnerable populations. These initiatives aim to improve early diagnosis and care, particularly for women and children who are often underdiagnosed.
A case in Nasarawa State illustrates the impact of these efforts. Gwamkat Rifkatu, a 21-year-old, developed a persistent cough that was initially ignored by her family. Following a WHO-supported awareness campaign, she sought testing at a primary health centre. Using the rapid GeneXpert tool, she was diagnosed with TB and immediately started treatment. Her household was screened and provided preventive therapy, demonstrating how community-focused interventions can save lives.
TB remains a significant health challenge globally and in Nigeria. In 2025, an estimated 510,000 new cases occurred in the country, including 61,000 children. Notifications rose to 458,534 cases, reflecting improved detection, with 57% male and 43% female. Despite progress, about 63,000 cases remain undetected annually, and challenges persist with multi-drug-resistant TB, TB-HIV co-infection, stigma, and limited access to testing in underserved areas.
Nigeria’s response, led by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare through the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, is supported by WHO, the Global Fund, and partners. Expanded community screening, hotspot mapping, and awareness campaigns have contributed to increased case detection and improved access to treatment. Health workers report more women and children seeking care due to these efforts.
Sustaining progress requires innovation, investment, and community engagement. WHO is supporting Nigeria to adopt simplified sampling methods, faster testing, and strengthened health worker capacity. The development of the National TB Strategic Plan (2027–2031) aims to align with global best practices, while ongoing TB vaccine research targets the populations most affected.
As Nigeria marks World TB Day 2026 under the theme “Yes, we can end TB: led by the Federal Ministry of Health and powered by communities,” authorities emphasize that TB is preventable and curable. Continued leadership, investment, and collective action are essential to detect every case, complete treatment, and ultimately end tuberculosis as a public health threat.
