FG detects over 300,000 tuberculosis cases in 2023
Kunle Sanni
The Federal Government has disclosed that over 300,000 tuberculosis cases were reported in 2023, the highest number ever recorded in the history of the disease.
This was disclosed by Health Minister, Ali Pate while delivering a speech on Tuesday at the 37th STOP TB Partnership Board Meeting in Brazil.
“In 2023, Nigeria diagnosed over 300,000 TB cases for the first time in its history, reducing the missing case gap and positioning the country to achieve its 2025 National Strategic Plan targets.
“At the 2023 UN High-level Meeting (UN HLM) on Universal Health Coverage (UHC), Nigeria reached about 70 per cent of its cumulative target and approximately 90 per cent of the 2022 target,” he said.
He acknowledged the advancements but insisted that the nation was still dedicated to enhancing the coverage of TB preventive therapy (TPT) and achieving 100 per cent treatment coverage. In order to handle the difficulties of locating cases in a nation with a large burden of poverty, he said, the nation was also compiling best practices and strategic initiatives.
“The achievements in Nigeria’s TB control programme would not have been possible without the support of partners such as USAID, GFATM, WHO, Stop TB Partnership, CDC, DoD, and Civil Society Organisations.
“The programme staff, especially the front-line workers, were also recognised for their dedication in providing TB services, even during emergencies and crises,” he said.
“The increase in TB diagnoses is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to tackling the disease head-on and implementing innovative strategies.
“Through a combination of data-driven interventions, evidence-based approaches, and technologically enhanced activities, Nigeria has made remarkable progress in identifying and treating TB cases.
“The achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Despite the disruptions caused by the global health crisis, Nigeria’s TB programme demonstrated resilience and adaptability, ensuring that TB services continued to be provided to those in need,” he said.
