The Federal government has sought private sector support to the tune of ₦39 billion to help in its effort in the fight against Tuberculosis.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, said this in Lagos, at the launch of the Private Sector Strategy to End Tuberculosis in Nigeria”, organized by Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, on Friday.
Ali Pate said tuberculosis remained a formidable challenge in the country, “striking the poorest and most vulnerable“.
Pate said the federal government has made progress in its effort to combat the sickness but still faces huge financial hurdles.
He said the government has data and was committed to addressing the sickness. He added that financial support from the private sector of $25 million – ₦39,140,450,000 (Thirty-nine billion, One hundred and Forty million, Four hundred and Fifty thousand) using the Central Bank of Nigeria buying rate of ₦1565.618 – would assist in ending tuberculosis.
“The message was clear: we know the statistics, we are leading in case identification, and the Government and its development partners are doing their part. Now, it’s time for the private sector to join the fight against tuberculosis in Nigeria,” Pate said.
The Minister of Health said tuberculosis should not be seen alone as a health issue but also as a social and economic challenge affecting all.
“Tuberculosis remains a formidable challenge in our country, striking the poorest and most vulnerable, those who are often socially excluded. Despite our progress, we still face significant hurdles. The resources needed to sustain and expand our efforts are vast, and the burden on our health system is immense. This isn’t just a health issue; it’s a social and economic challenge that affects directly or indirectly every one of us,” he said.
Pate added, “In inviting the private sector into the fight against tuberculosis, we seek active partners who can amplify our efforts. We have the tools and knowledge to combat TB effectively, but we need your support. Imagine the impact of a strategic partnership where the Nigerian private sector leaders raise $25 million for tuberculosis initiatives, and the government and development partners match it. Together, we can ensure that our resources are used efficiently, effectively, and transparently, with a plan to monitor our progress over time.”
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