Nigeria deploys over 1,000 diagnostic units to combat the rising tuberculosis cases

NIGERIA—Nigeria is intensifying efforts to detect and treat tuberculosis by deploying new diagnostic technology across the country.

Health officials warn that thousands of cases remain undetected, posing significant transmission risks.

At the 2026 Pre-World TB Day press briefing in Abuja, Director of Public Health Dr. Charles Nzelu announced that the federal government is rolling out over 1,000 units of the Pluslife Mini Dock diagnostic platform.

This initiative aims to expand testing access, particularly in underserved communities.

“This near-point-of-care technology is a game-changer, allowing us to bring molecular-grade testing to the most remote communities, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind due to geography,” Nzelu said.

Bridging detection gaps

The initiative supports broader efforts to improve tuberculosis detection as Nigeria approaches the final phase of its 2021–2026 National Strategic Plan.

While case notification has increased significantly, the disease burden remains high.

Nzelu emphasized that the government is strengthening electronic reporting systems to enable real-time data tracking from health facilities to national dashboards.

This transparency improves supply chain management and prevents shortages of essential medicines.

He highlighted that technology alone cannot solve the challenge.

Community health workers, tuberculosis survivors, and the media play crucial roles in tackling stigma and improving treatment outcomes.

National progress and persistent challenges

Dr. Clement Adesigbin, Acting National Coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, confirmed that Nigeria remains among high-burden countries.

However, he stressed that coordinated national efforts are producing results.

Nigeria records over 500,000 tuberculosis cases annually, driven largely by poverty, malnutrition, overcrowding, and unemployment.

“Wherever you see poverty, malnutrition, overcrowding and joblessness, you will see tuberculosis,” Adesigbin noted.

Treatment coverage has improved dramatically from approximately 20 percent in 2018 to above 80 percent today.

Nevertheless, stigma and funding gaps continue to hinder progress.

Partnership and sustainability Concerns

Dr. Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, Board Chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, emphasized that ending tuberculosis requires strong government leadership while communities drive awareness, prevention, treatment adherence, and accountability.

She warned that declining donor funding globally makes domestic resource mobilization critical.

“Sustainable financing from government budgets, private sector contributions and innovative mechanisms will be key to ensuring no Nigerian is left behind,” she said.

The World Health Organization noted that Nigeria’s estimated 510,000 annual cases include about 175,000 undetected cases, creating major transmission risks.

The organization stressed that ending tuberculosis requires decisive leadership, sustained investment, and strong solidarity.

Nationwide awareness campaign

Dr. Bethrand Odume, Chair of the 2026 World TB Day Planning Committee, announced a series of nationwide engagements ahead of March 24.

Activities include community outreach, religious sensitization, road walks, and school campaigns.

Health officials urged Nigerians experiencing persistent coughs lasting more than two weeks to seek early testing.

Tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment remain free at all government-approved facilities nationwide.