FCT records 16,000 TB cases annually, achieves 94% treatment success rate

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has recorded approximately 16,000 cases of Tuberculosis annually, with health authorities reporting a treatment success rate of 94 per cent.

This was disclosed by Dr. Dan Gasama, Director of Public Health at the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (FCT-HSES), during a community outreach in Abuja to mark the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day.

The outreach, organised in collaboration with Stop TB Partnership Nigeria and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, aimed to expand awareness, screening, and access to treatment in high-burden communities.

Gasama noted that TB-related deaths in the FCT have reduced by about 64 per cent over the years, although the disease remains a significant public health challenge both globally and within Nigeria.

He cited global figures indicating that about 10.7 million people fell ill with TB, resulting in approximately 1.23 million deaths, including 150,000 among people living with HIV.

In Nigeria, the burden remains high, with a prevalence rate of 219 per 100,000 population. The country recorded over 467,000 TB cases in 2025—the highest ever—largely due to improved detection and strengthened surveillance systems.

According to Gasama, early diagnosis and proper treatment have been key factors behind the high success rate recorded in the FCT. He added that in 2025 alone, the FCT Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme identified over 40,000 presumptive cases, with 3,679 confirmed and officially notified.

As part of activities marking World Tuberculosis Day 2026, hundreds of residents in the Mabushi community received free screening for TB, malaria, and other ailments. Medications were also distributed, while severe cases were referred for further medical care.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Jenny Momoh, who represented the World Health Organisation (WHO) FCT State Coordinator, Jibrin Alkasim, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to eradicating TB. She stressed the importance of sustained investment, innovation, and collaboration in achieving that goal.

Also, Mrs. Teresa Jatau highlighted the crucial role of communities in tackling the disease, urging residents to embrace early testing and adhere strictly to treatment.

The 2026 World Tuberculosis Day is themed: “Yes, we can. We can end TB,” underscoring renewed global commitment to eliminating the disease.