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First Lady Boosts Nigeria’s TB Fight with 10 Diagnostic Machines, ₦1bn Support for FCTA

ABUJA — Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has intensified the battle against tuberculosis (TB) with the donation of 10 molecular diagnostic machines and an additional ₦1 billion to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The contribution, made under her Renewed Hope Initiative, was unveiled at the commissioning of the new TB diagnostic machines in Abuja. Represented by Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq, wife of the Kwara State Governor, Mrs. Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to eliminating TB nationwide.

“Earlier this year, during World TB Day in Sauka village, I pledged ₦1 billion to support the fight against tuberculosis. Today, I am pleased to see this commitment translated into reality,” she said.

Bridging the Gap in TB Detection
The First Lady described TB as a curable disease that continues to claim lives in Nigeria due to limited diagnostic access.

“Too many Nigerians die not because technology is lacking, but because it is out of reach. These machines will help close that gap, especially in underserved communities,” she explained.

The solar-powered molecular diagnostic machines will be deployed across the country for rapid TB detection, aimed at breaking transmission chains and ensuring swift treatment for patients.

More Than Machines: A Call for Resources
Mrs. Tinubu stressed that defeating TB will require more than just advanced tools.

“Ending TB demands human, financial, technical, and political resources. I urge all stakeholders to mobilise domestic resources and stand shoulder to shoulder in this fight,” she said, commending the Federal Ministry of Health, Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme for their efforts.

FCT Health Chief Lauds Donation
Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health and Environmental Services Secretariat, hailed the First Lady as “a champion for health in Nigeria.” She highlighted Nigeria’s alarming TB statistics — at least seven deaths daily and over 100 new infections.

“TB is preventable and treatable. These machines, with over 95% predictive accuracy, can detect the disease quickly without the need for blood samples,” Dr. Fasawe said, noting that treatment remains free for all patients.

She also cautioned that immunosuppressed individuals — including pregnant women, the undernourished, and the stressed — are more vulnerable to infection.

“With Her Excellency’s drive and commitment, we can end tuberculosis in Nigeria,” she concluded.

The Renewed Hope Initiative has also extended its reach beyond TB control, providing protective gear, uniforms for healthcare workers, and empowerment programs for both men and women across the country.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna