The World Health Organization has called on Nigeria to increase domestic funding and strengthen community engagement to sustain progress in the fight against tuberculosis.
Dr. Mya Ngon, speaking on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2026 World TB Day, said that while progress has been made, significant gaps remain, especially in reaching underserved populations who are most vulnerable to TB infection and poor treatment outcomes.
Highlighting the 2025 theme, “Yes, we can end TB: led by the Federal Ministry of Health and powered by communities,” Ngon stressed that ending TB is achievable with sustained investment, accountability, and collective action.
“We must stand together with millions affected by TB and remember those who have lost their lives. Ending TB is possible with strong leadership and active community involvement,” she said.
Ngon noted that tuberculosis is not only a health issue but also a socio-economic concern, as financial burdens on patients and households often delay timely diagnosis and treatment. She called for stronger domestic resource mobilization, warning that Nigeria cannot rely solely on external funding as support from the Global Fund may decline in future cycles.
“Nigeria is preparing proposals for the next funding round while strengthening internal financing mechanisms to ensure sustainable TB programmes,” she added.
The WHO official reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to providing technical guidance, policy development, and best practices to improve TB outcomes. Efforts to expand access to diagnosis and treatment through primary healthcare services, innovative approaches, and routine childhood vaccination with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) were also highlighted.
Ngon called for strengthened partnerships among government agencies, civil society, development partners, and communities to achieve national TB targets and ensure no one is left behind. She emphasised the role of awareness campaigns, media, and community-based organisations in reducing stigma and improving health-seeking behaviour.
“Communities and the media play a vital role in translating scientific information into messages that people can easily understand. When people understand how TB is transmitted, tested, and treated, stigma reduces, and more people are encouraged to seek care,” she said.
Ngon concluded that ending TB in Nigeria requires collective responsibility, with individuals, communities, and institutions all playing active roles in prevention, detection, and treatment.