…First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Donates One Billion Naira to Fight TB
By Comfort Olayinka
In a significant move towards eradicating Tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritize TB prevention, expand testing facilities, and ensure free treatment for all Nigerians.
The announcement was made by Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, the First Lady of Nigeria, during the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day Community Outreach held in Sauka, Abuja, on March 24, 2025.
Themed “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, and Deliver,” this year’s World TB Day focused on uniting Nigerians and global partners in the collective fight against TB, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the preventable and curable disease.
As part of her personal commitment to the cause, Senator Oluremi Tinubu pledged an additional One Billion Naira from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to support TB eradication efforts in the country.
Speaking at the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government has made significant strides to enhance TB detection, treatment, and prevention. She highlighted the expansion of TB testing and treatment centers across Nigeria as part of a concerted effort to strengthen the nation’s healthcare system.
“The fight against TB is not just the government’s responsibility, but a collective effort. We are determined to close the gaps in detection and care, ensuring that treatment remains free and accessible to all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable,” she said.
The Honourable Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, also addressed the gathering, commending the First Lady for her unwavering support. Dr. Salako noted that Nigeria contributes to 4.6% of the global TB burden and stressed that the situation is exacerbated by stigma, poverty, and inadequate healthcare access.
In 2024, Nigeria recorded its highest-ever TB notification, with over 400,000 cases, a 79% case detection rate, and a significant rise in TB notifications among children. Dr. Salako shared that the government is focusing on improving TB screening, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive services, including the deployment of nearly 400 portable digital x-ray machines nationwide to enhance early diagnosis in underserved areas.
Through the ongoing revitalization of primary healthcare centers and training of healthcare workers, Nigeria is making strides toward meeting the TB National Strategic Plan’s ambitious goals, with the aim of ending TB by 2030.
The First Lady’s pledge of One Billion Naira and the concerted efforts of the Federal Government signal a renewed commitment to tackling the TB crisis head-on, ensuring a healthier future for Nigerians across the nation.
