The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, has recorded about 16,000 cases of Tuberculosis, TB, annually, with treatment success rate reaching 94 per cent.
Dr. Dan Gasama, Director of Public Health, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, FCT-HSES, disclosed this at a community outreach to commemorate the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day on Saturday in Abuja.
The outreach was organised by FCT-HSES, Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, NTBLCP, and other partners.
Gasama said TB mortality had reduced by about 64 per cent over the years, noting that the disease remained a major public health concern globally and nationally.
“Globally, an estimated 10.7 million people fell ill with TB, with about 1.23 million deaths, including 150,000 among people living with HIV.
“With a prevalence of 219 per 100,000 population, Nigeria remains among high TB burden countries, while the FCT accounts for about 16,000 cases annually,” he said.
He added that Nigeria recorded over 467,000 TB cases in 2025, the highest ever, attributing improved detection to strengthened surveillance and community outreach.
According to him, early detection and proper treatment have contributed to the 94 per cent treatment success rate recorded in the territory.
Gasama said the FCT Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme also recorded significant progress in 2025, identifying over 40,171 presumptive cases, out of which 3,679 were confirmed and notified.
He explained that the 2026 commemoration focused on taking TB awareness, screening and treatment services to high-burden communities.
Hundreds of residents of Mabushi community benefitted from free screening for TB, malaria and other ailments, while medications were distributed and severe cases referred to hospitals.
In a goodwill message, Dr. Jenny Momoh, representing the World Health Organisation, WHO, FCT Coordinator, Dr Jibrin Alkasim, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ending TB.
She highlighted progress in diagnostics, treatment and community-centred care, while stressing the need for sustained investment and collaboration.
“Ending TB requires sustained investment, innovation and a strong multisectoral response that leaves no one behind,” she said.
Also speaking, Mrs Teresa Jatau, Programme Manager of TB Network, underscored the role of communities in combating the disease.
She urged residents to embrace early testing and adhere to treatment, noting that TB is curable when detected early.
The 2026 World Tuberculosis Day is themed: “Yes, we can. We can end TB”.
Source: NAN
READ ALSO:
Turaki-led PDP’s appeal at Supreme Court baseless –Wike
Osolo stool: I voted for Jimmy-Goloba, kingmaker tells court
Diaspora, diplomacy and the danger of ethnic projection
Tinubu affirms belief in credible opposition at APC convention
APC: Yilwatda re-elected as national chairman, speaks on mission
Abduction: Amotekun rescues three health workers, two others
Tinubu commiserates with El-Rufai on the death of his mother
Naira strengthens further at official market
Kano deputy governor resigns, gives reason
Lassa fever death toll hits 135 as fatality rate climbs to 26.2%
Appeal Court judgment: Turaki-led PDP NEC heads for Supreme Court
