Nigeria Reports 510,000 Annual TB Cases, Boosts Response

Nigeria has recorded 510,000 tuberculosis (TB) cases annually, making it the country with the highest TB burden in Africa and ranking sixth globally with an incidence rate of 219 cases per 100,000 population. During a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, Dr. Charl Nzelu, the Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health, emphasized the urgency of accelerating progress against TB despite ongoing challenges.

He noted that while TB is curable with treatment typically lasting six to nine months, drug-resistant forms may require longer care. The National Tuberculosis, Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP) is leading a nationwide rollout of over 1,000 mini-dock diagnostic platforms to expand access to molecular testing, especially in underserved communities.

This technology aims to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind due to geographical barriers. Additionally, efforts are ongoing to strengthen an electronic reporting system for real-time data tracking and to improve supply chain management to prevent stockouts of essential TB medications.