The Stop Tuberculosis (TB) Nigeria Initiative has launched a private sector strategy to end TB in Nigeria, calling on private sector leaders to join the fight against the disease.
Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Pate made this known on his X account on Friday.
The minister said Nigeria is leading the way in TB case detection and called on the private sector to join the fight.
“We know the statistics, we are leaders in identifying cases and the government and its development partners are doing their part. Now is the time for the private sector to join the fight against TB in Nigeria,” he said.
Call for collaboration
Mr Pate said TB remains a major threat in our country, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable and marginalized populations, including the poorest and socially excluded people.
He said that while there has been progress, there are still obstacles, adding that the resources needed to sustain and scale up efforts are enormous and the burden on health systems is significant.
“This is not just a health problem, but a social and economic problem that affects everyone, either directly or indirectly,” the minister said.
Article page with promotion of financial support
The Minister explained that by involving the private sector in the fight against tuberculosis, the government aims to collaborate with dynamic partners that can improve and scale up the impact, amplifying collective efforts to combat this disease.
He believes that combining private sector and government funding will amplify the impact and save lives.
Mr Pate said: “We have the tools and the knowledge to effectively fight TB, but we need your support. Imagine the impact of a strategic partnership where Nigerian private sector leaders raise $25 million for TB initiatives and the government and development partners match that amount.
“Together we can ensure that our resources are used efficiently, effectively and transparently, with a plan to monitor our progress over time.”
Advocacy
According to Mr. Pate, Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of Lagos State Governor, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, along with other first ladies advocated for the fight against tuberculosis.
She said her leadership and advocacy have raised awareness about the importance of tackling TB, motivating people from all walks of life to take action.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to development partners for their vital support in the fight against tuberculosis.
He said: “We also owe much to our development partners, such as USAIDGH and Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, Agbami Parties, GlobalFund, UNOPS, USAIDGH, KncvNigeria, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria and other partners whose unwavering support, resources and expertise have significantly advanced our efforts.
“In addition, a global health icon, Peter Piot, has greatly influenced our TB strategies with his pioneering work, dedication and guidance. His leadership and commitment continue to inspire us,” said Mr. Pate.
Global plan to end tuberculosis
The Global Plan to End Tuberculosis (2023–2030) is a plan to end tuberculosis as a public health challenge by 2030.
Developed by the Stop TB Partnership, this plan provides a roadmap of priority actions and estimates the financial resources needed to achieve this goal.
Building on the previous plan, it aligns with global commitments made at the 2018 United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB.
The plan includes funding needs for tuberculosis care, prevention and research into new tools.