Professor Chukwuma Soludo, the Governor of Anambra State, Nigeria, has initiated comprehensive tuberculosis control programmes through the state’s Ministry of Health. These efforts are being carried out in collaboration with national and international health agencies, non-governmental organisations, and community stakeholders.
Dr. Afam Obidike, the State Commissioner for Health, made this announcement during a press briefing held at the TB Data Situation Room in Awka, the capital city.
He stressed the need to raise awareness about tuberculosis, which remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, and reaffirm the state’s resolve to combat this global health threat.
Dr. Obidike provided statistics, stating, “The data compiled by the State Ministry of Health and reports from the Nigeria Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Bruli Ulcer Control Programme, the state tested 138,000 persons in 2023, and notified 13,120 cases.”
He further emphasised that tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge, with approximately 4,100 deaths occurring daily worldwide due to the disease, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Highlighting the global burden, Dr. Obidike noted that nearly half of all tuberculosis cases are concentrated in eight countries, including Nigeria, and assured that the state, under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s leadership, has implemented robust TB control initiatives.
The Commissioner reiterated that treatment for all forms of tuberculosis is provided free of charge by the current administration in Anambra State. He also mentioned that there are over 800 facilities across the state offering TB treatment services.
In a statement on behalf of the World Health Organisation, Mr. Ndubuisi Orji pledged continued support for the state’s efforts in eradicating the disease.