More than 50,000 Nigerians have tested positive for tuberculosis (TB) following an expanded nationwide screening initiative, according to the Global Fund.
However, a significant number of those diagnosed remain untreated due to a growing funding shortfall.
The alarming development was disclosed by Mr. Ibrahim Tajudeen, Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM), during the 11th quarterly meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee on the Basic Health Care Provision Fund held in Abuja.
Tajudeen revealed that the mass TB screening campaign was conducted in partnership with government agencies and international donors.
While the screening successfully identified tens of thousands of TB cases, limited financial resources have hindered efforts to place many of the patients on the required treatment regimen.
He attributed the treatment gap to funding reprioritisation under the new Global Fund grant cycle.
According to Tajudeen, the CCM is required to align with revised funding allocations by July 14 — a move that may further delay access to treatment for thousands already diagnosed.
“TB is both preventable and curable,” he noted, “yet it continues to rank among the most severe public health challenges in Nigeria.”
Despite the setback, progress has been made in several key health areas. Tajudeen reported that 370 digital X-ray machines have been deployed to various states, with six regional reference laboratories currently undergoing upgrades.
Additionally, over 25.5 million TB tests have been carried out using advanced diagnostic technologies.
In the area of malaria prevention, 16.6 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets have been distributed nationwide. Furthermore, donor commitments amounting to $95.5 million have been secured to support a range of public health initiatives.
Nevertheless, Tajudeen warned that earlier budgetary shortfalls have forced the suspension of vital operations, including drug procurement, healthcare worker training, and infrastructure development.
He urged the Ministerial Oversight Committee and international development partners to urgently address the financial gaps to avoid undermining the gains made so far.
“Screening without treatment not only renders the process ineffective but also increases the risk of further transmission,” he said.
Nigeria continues to rank among the highest TB-burdened countries in the world.
Health experts are calling for increased investment and stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure timely diagnosis, treatment, and sustained control of the disease.
