NTBLCP and other NGOS Rallies Against Tuberculosis: 2024 World TB Day Sparks Hope and Action

The National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP), in partnership with HIFASS and other stakeholders, marked the 2024 World Tuberculosis (TB) Day in Abuja with a message of hope and a call to action. Under the theme "Yes! We can end TB!" and the slogan "No gree for TB, check Am O!" the event focused on translating commitments into tangible actions through high-level leadership and increased investments.

Highlights of the Commemoration:

• Pre-World TB Day Press Conference (March 19, 2024): Held at KNCV Hall, panel discussions spotlighted innovative TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies, addressing challenges such as funding gaps, stigma, discrimination, and drug resistance. Experts called for increased funding, public awareness campaigns, stronger health systems, and investments in research and innovation.
• Awareness Road Walk (March 25, 2024): A road walk from Garki Ultra Modern to Garki Old Market engaged the community, raising public awareness about TB.
• Ministerial Press Briefing (March 26, 2024): Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating TB in Nigeria by 2030, emphasizing increased funding and stronger healthcare systems. Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, highlighted significant increases in TB case detection and treatment success rates, attributing progress to a multisectoral approach addressing factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, HIV, and diabetes.

Additional Activities:

• Keynote speeches from government officials and health experts.
• Exhibitions showcasing TB control and prevention efforts.
• Community engagement programs offering free TB screenings and raising awareness.
• Advocacy visits exploring collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health.

Representatives from WHO, USAID, and other international partners stressed the importance of collaboration in tackling the social determinants of TB. The 2024 World TB Day in Abuja showcased the progress made and the challenges ahead while renewing commitment and partnerships towards ending TB in Nigeria by 2030.