Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, has expressed her belief in the nation’s potential to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) by the year 2035, emphasizing the importance of collaborative partnerships and innovative approaches in tackling the disease.
During her address at the 2024 National TB Conference held in Abuja, themed “Public-Private Partnership and Integrated Service Delivery: A Solution to End TB in Nigeria,” she acknowledged the commitment of various stakeholders but underscored the necessity for ongoing efforts to achieve global TB elimination objectives.
“While we have made some progress, Nigeria continues to bear the highest TB burden in Africa and ranks sixth worldwide. The 2024 WHO Global Tuberculosis Report indicates that Nigeria had around 467,000 TB cases in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for united action,” she remarked.
The First Lady recognized advancements in TB diagnosis and treatment, crediting these achievements to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Tinubu, along with assistance from civil society organizations and international partners like USAID and the Global Fund.
“The key to success is in the robust partnerships between the public and private sectors, coupled with integrated service delivery that ensures everyone is accounted for,” she stated.
Oluremi Tinubu reiterated her commitment to the fight against TB, revealing that her prior donations have been utilized to acquire diagnostic equipment, improve case detection, and enhance other essential services.
She commended the conference as a crucial venue for sharing insights, formulating strategies, and reaffirming the commitment to combat TB.
As Nigeria continues its battle against tuberculosis, Oluremi Tinubu’s optimism serves as a reminder of the significance of collaboration, innovation, and steadfast commitment. With sustained efforts, the nation aspires to reach its goal of eliminating TB by 2035, paving the way for a healthier future for all Nigerians.
