The World Health Organisation has called on Nigeria to increase domestic funding and strengthen community engagement to maintain progress in the fight against tuberculosis.
Dr. Mya Ngon, WHO Nigeria’s Cluster Lead for Disease Prevention and Control, made the appeal on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2026 World TB Day.
She noted that while progress has been achieved, major gaps remain, particularly in reaching underserved populations most at risk of 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,” Dr. Ngon stressed that ending TB is possible through sustained investment, accountability, and collective effort.
“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.
Dr. Ngon also pointed out that TB is not only a health issue but a socio-economic challenge, as the financial burden on patients and families can delay timely diagnosis and treatment. She urged for financial risk protection measures and stronger domestic resource mobilisation, stressing that Nigeria cannot rely solely on external funding, as support from the Global Fund may decline in future cycles.
“Nigeria is already preparing proposals for the next funding round while strengthening internal financing mechanisms to ensure sustainable TB programmes,” she added.
WHO remains committed to providing technical guidance, policy support, and global best practices to improve Nigeria’s TB response and patient outcomes. Dr. Ngon emphasised the importance of expanding access to TB diagnosis and treatment through innovative approaches and integration into primary healthcare services.
She also highlighted the need for ongoing research for new TB vaccines, particularly for adults, while continuing routine childhood vaccination with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin to protect children from severe TB.
Dr. Ngon called for stronger partnerships among government, development partners, civil society, and communities to achieve national TB targets and ensure no one is left behind. She urged Nigerians to support awareness campaigns and utilise available services, noting that TB diagnosis and treatment are accessible in public health facilities nationwide.
She stressed the role of communities, civil society organisations, and the media in educating the public, 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,” Dr. Ngon said.
Misinformation and lack of awareness, she noted, are major drivers of stigma, which hinders TB detection and treatment. “When people understand how TB is transmitted, tested, and treated, stigma reduces, and more people are encouraged to seek care,” she added.
Community-based organisations and charities also play a key role in complementing government efforts through grassroots education and sensitisation. “These groups are closer to the people and can help ensure that health messages reach every household,” she said.
Dr. Ngon concluded that ending TB requires collective responsibility, with individuals, communities, and institutions all playing active roles in prevention, detection, and treatment. “With stronger collaboration between government, communities, and the media, we can improve awareness, reduce stigma, and accelerate progress toward ending tuberculosis in Nigeria,” she said.