Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of Nigeria, on Thursday reiterated her commitment to leading the advocacy against tuberculosis (TB) during the 38th Board Meeting of the Stop TB Partnership Global in Abuja.
Addressing representatives from over 62 countries, she emphasized the urgent need for action to eliminate the world’s deadliest infectious disease.
The meeting, which celebrated Nigeria’s achievement of an 80% detection and treatment rate for TB, also highlighted the challenges the country faces, such as funding shortages and low public awareness.
Despite the progress, health leaders urged more resources and concerted efforts to fully eradicate the disease.
In her address, the First Lady shared a personal experience, lamenting the loss of a trusted staff member who died after concealing his TB diagnosis out of fear of stigma.
She stressed that ignorance and fear are significant barriers to treatment, particularly among ordinary citizens.
“Most of us don’t even know we still have TB,” she noted.
Reflecting on her years in the Senate, Senator Tinubu expressed regret for not being more involved in health committees, as she could have done more to address public health issues.
She also urged for collective action, stating, “As citizens of the world, of Africa, and of Nigeria, we have the power, the responsibility, and the duty to act now.”
While applauding Nigeria’s progress, she acknowledged that much work remains to be done.
In 2023, Nigeria reported approximately 467,000 cases of TB, and the First Lady called for intensified efforts, especially in educating the public and protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children.
Dr. Lucica Ditiu, Executive Director of the Global Stop TB Partnership, praised Nigeria’s leadership and progress, noting it as an example for other nations.
She urged the country to mobilize additional resources, particularly in addressing drug-resistant TB and combating stigma.
Prof. Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, echoed these sentiments, commending President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady for their leadership.
He also highlighted the importance of increasing domestic funding and accountability to strengthen TB control efforts.
Tope Adebola Adams, a survivor and National Coordinator of TB People Nigeria, thanked the First Lady for her dedication and called for greater support in areas such as nutritional assistance for TB patients, capacity building, and the enforcement of laws against stigma and discrimination.
The event underscored the global commitment to combat TB, with countries like Malawi, Indonesia, and Tajikistan sharing their experiences and strategies.