By Peter Omopo
Abuja, June 30, 2025 — More than 50,000 Nigerians have tested positive for tuberculosis (TB) following intensified national screening efforts, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria revealed on Monday. However, a significant number of those diagnosed are yet to begin treatment due to funding shortfalls.
The alarming figures were disclosed by Mr. Ibrahim Tajudeen, Executive Secretary of the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) in Nigeria, during the 11th quarterly meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund in Abuja.
Tajudeen warned that Nigeria’s progress in TB detection could be reversed if urgent action is not taken to bridge the treatment gap.
“We have successfully screened more than 50,000 individuals who tested positive for TB,” he said. “Unfortunately, many of them cannot begin treatment due to insufficient resources.”
He noted that the backlog stems from constraints in the current funding cycle and reprioritisation under the new Global Fund grant. Tajudeen added that the CCM is required to confirm its alignment with the revised funding allocation by July 14, a deadline that could determine the fate of thousands awaiting treatment.
Tuberculosis, a preventable and curable bacterial infection, remains one of Nigeria’s most persistent public health threats, especially in under-resourced communities.
The Global Fund official emphasized the need for sustained financial and political commitment to scale up access to treatment and ensure early detection. He also highlighted other ongoing health interventions supported by the Fund, urging stakeholders to prioritise the continuity of care amid shifting fiscal realities.
The revelation has sparked fresh calls among health advocates for increased domestic investment in Nigeria’s fight against TB, especially as the country works toward achieving its Universal Health Coverage goals.
