Mirian Gom 
Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s tuberculosis control programme says new digital systems and advanced diagnostic tools are helping identify more patients and close gaps in TB detection nationwide.
The Acting National Coordinator of the National TB, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, Clement Adesigbin, announces the progress on Tuesday during a press briefing ahead of World TB Day in Abuja.
Adesigbin says detecting tuberculosis cases has historically been a major challenge, but technology is now improving case identification.
“Diagnosing people is very difficult, and finding large numbers of undiagnosed cases is even harder,” he says.
“But today, with advanced diagnostic tools and digital platforms, we can identify more patients efficiently.”
According to the programme, Nigeria diagnoses and places over 450,000 TB patients on treatment in 2025, while the country’s detection rate improves to about 30 per cent, up from 20–25 per cent in previous years.
Digital platforms and specialised websites now help health workers diagnose and track cases across the country.
The programme also expands community-based healthcare services to ensure TB testing and treatment reach people closer to their homes.
Adesigbin warns that drug-resistant tuberculosis remains a growing threat when patients fail to complete treatment.
“Drug resistance develops when patients do not complete treatment or cannot access the right medication,” he says.
Health officials say stronger partnerships between government, civil society and private organisations will be essential to eliminate the disease.
World TB Day is marked annually on March 24 to raise global awareness and mobilise resources to end tuberculosis.
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Koko Maxwella 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 