The Anambra State Government on Tuesday marked the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day with the inauguration of tricycles to enhance mobile tuberculosis (TB) testing across the state.
Speaking at the event in Awka, Dr Obiageli Uchebo, Permanent Secretary, Anambra State Ministry of Health, said the occasion was not merely ceremonial but a call to action against the disease.
Uchebo described tuberculosis as a preventable, treatable and curable disease.
She said that ending TB requires collective efforts from government, communities and stakeholders.
“The theme of the 2026 commemoration, ‘Yes! We Can End TB’, underscores the need for national governments to take ownership of TB response, while communities and healthcare providers drive grassroots implementation.
“According to statistics, nearly two-thirds of global TB cases occur in eight high-burden countries, including Nigeria.
“Africa accounts for about one-quarter of the global TB burden, largely due to factors such as high prevalence of HIV co-infection, poverty and malnutrition,” she said.
Uchebo assured residents that TB testing and treatment remain free across Anambra, noting that no one would be denied access on financial grounds.
Also speaking, Dr Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, Programme Manager, TB, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control, educated participants on tuberculosis, its causes and symptoms.
Chukwulobelu urged early diagnosis and treatment.
He said the newly inaugurated tricycles would improve outreach services, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.
World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on March 24, to raise awareness and mobilise efforts to end the disease globally
