Funding Cuts will worsen Tuberculosis in Nigeria – WHO warns

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that funding cuts to tuberculosis (TB) services could have devastating consequences for thousands of Nigerians affected by the disease. WHO Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, issued the warning on Monday during the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day Community Outreach in Sauka, Abuja.

Nigeria has seen a remarkable 300 percent increase in TB case detection over the past five years, rising from 138,583 cases in 2020 to 418,198 cases in 2024. This surge, driven by innovative strategies and increased awareness, has brought hope in the fight against one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. However, Dr. Mulombo cautioned that if funding gaps are not urgently addressed, these gains could be reversed, putting thousands of lives at risk.

He stressed the need for strong collaboration with civil society organizations and affected communities to prevent service disruptions and ensure equitable healthcare access. This year’s World TB Day theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, and Deliver,” along with Nigeria’s local slogan “We fit do am,” reflects the urgency of action required from governments, donors, and stakeholders to eliminate TB.

Dr. Mulombo reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s TB response, pledging continued collaboration with public and private sector partners, NGOs, professional bodies, donors, and affected communities to mitigate the impact of funding cuts. He also urged community leaders to champion essential healthcare services, including vaccinations for childhood illnesses.

“BCG vaccination at birth helps prevent severe TB in children. Malaria vaccines for children aged 5 to 15 months are now available and are being rolled out by the NPHCDA, WHO, and partners,” he stated.

He reiterated that TB is preventable, treatable, and curable, urging anyone coughing for two weeks or more to get tested at the nearest health facility. Calling on all stakeholders—including donors, private sector players, civil society, academia, and the media—to join forces in the fight against TB, Dr. Mulombo declared, “Yes! We can end TB. We fit do am!” expressing confidence that with sustained commitment and investment, Nigeria can defeat TB once and for all.