In a bold stride toward a healthier future, Nigeria is shining a much-needed light on a silent and deadly foe that has long lurked in the shadows: tuberculosis (TB). With a renewed determination and collective commitment, the nation is mobilizing efforts to tackle this ancient yet persistent disease, striving to save lives, and bring hope to those affected.
Tuberculosis, once considered a relic of the past, continues to claim the lives of thousands, silently ravaging communities across Nigeria. The time has come to shed light on this public health crisis, as the nation grapples with the staggering burden of TB and its devastating impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole.
Recent statistics paint a sobering picture. Nigeria ranks among the countries with the highest TB burden globally, with an estimated 400,000 cases reported each year, and unfortunately, countless cases go undiagnosed or unreported. The consequences are dire, with thousands of lives lost and families shattered by a disease that is both preventable and treatable. It is estimated that the country comes third behind only India and China in terms of tuberculosis cases. Every year, around 245,000 Nigerians die from tuberculosis (TB) and it accounts for more than 10% of all deaths in Nigeria. Every hour, nearly 30 people die from the disease, despite effective treatments being available.
According to the Global Tuberculosis Report 2022, not only did tuberculosis incidence increase by 4·5% for the first time in 20 years, but also deaths increased from 1·5 million in 2020, to 1·6 million in 2021. The End TB Strategy milestones of 2020, with the aimed reductions of 35% for deaths and 20% for incidence, have not been reached with only 5·9% and 10% reductions from 2015 to 2021, and funding was half of what was committed to at the 2018 High-Level Meeting. Over the past 3 years, the COVID-19 pandemic—diverting attention but also resources such as testing technology and equipment towards the pandemic response—has further impacted tuberculosis outcomes.
TB is disproportionally affecting the most marginalised individuals in our societies—people who are homeless, migrants, people living with HIV/AIDS, people with harmful alcohol use, illicit drug users, and people who are incarcerated. This high susceptibility is driven by an increased risk of exposure due to poor living conditions, such as overcrowding and poor ventilation, and poor access to health care that delays detection, diagnosis, and prolongs infectiousness. In response, WHO updated their guidelines on tuberculosis in 2021 to recommend systematic tuberculosis screening for these groups at high risk—including in prisons and other penitentiary institutions.
However, amidst this bleak reality, there is hope. Nigerian authorities, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, and international partners have joined forces to wage a determined war against TB. Recognizing the urgent need to act, initiatives are being launched, and strategies are being devised to combat the disease on multiple fronts.
First and foremost, raising awareness is vital. The stigma and misinformation surrounding TB often lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, allowing the disease to spread unchecked. Education campaigns are being intensified, aiming to dispel misconceptions, debunk myths, and encourage individuals to seek help promptly. By empowering communities with accurate knowledge about TB, Nigeria seeks to dismantle the barriers that prevent people from accessing timely care and support.
Also, strengthening healthcare systems is of paramount importance. The availability and accessibility of quality diagnostic tools and treatment regimens are critical in the fight against TB. Investing in modern technologies and equipping healthcare facilities with state-of-the-art equipment will enhance the accuracy and speed of diagnosis, enabling healthcare providers to initiate treatment swiftly. Additionally, bolstering the capacity of healthcare professionals through training programs will ensure that they have the knowledge and skills to effectively diagnose and treat TB cases.
Collaboration between sectors is essential for success. Government agencies, healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, community leaders, and affected individuals must work hand in hand to create a comprehensive and sustainable response to TB. This collaboration must extend beyond borders, as TB knows no boundaries. Sharing best practices, expertise, and resources with international partners will bolster Nigeria’s efforts to control the disease and improve the lives of those affected.
Crucially, funding plays a pivotal role in this battle. Adequate financial resources are needed to implement comprehensive prevention, diagnosis, and treatment programs, as well as to support research and innovation in TB control. Nigeria calls upon national and international stakeholders, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector to invest generously in the fight against TB, recognizing that such investments are not only cost-effective but also save lives, prevent suffering, and foster economic growth.
Taking tuberculosis out of the shadows requires unwavering commitment, bold action, and a united front. Nigeria, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has the power to lead the way in eradicating this ancient scourge. By prioritizing TB control, increasing awareness, strengthening healthcare systems, fostering collaboration, and securing sustainable funding, the nation can pave the way toward a future free from the shadows of tuberculosis.
Together, let us seize this opportunity to confront this silent killer, protect our communities, and ensure the #Right2Health and a brighter, healthier tomorrow for all Nigerians.
Okeke writes from the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) Nigeria
