TheCable

Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady, has donated N1 billion to the fight against tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria.

Speaking in Abuja Thursday during her investiture as the global and national stop TB champion, Tinubu called for more commitment from the state governments to end the scourge of tuberculosis in Nigeria.

The first lady said creating more awareness about tuberculosis can eradicate the disease before 2030.

“Let me acknowledge the efforts of all stakeholders at the national, regional, and global levels towards addressing the TB epidemic, following the adoption of the political declaration at the United Nations high-level meeting held in New York in September 2023,” she said.

“Building on this commitment, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is fully committed to the fight against tuberculosis and achieving the goals set forth in the political declaration, alongside other national goals towards ensuring a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.”

She also decorated wives of governors as TB champions for their respective states.

Oluremi called on the governors’ wives to create more awareness about tuberculosis in their states to reduce the prevalence of the disease.

“This designation is not just a title, but carries with it, the power to make a difference,” she said.

“I kindly appeal that you all use your exalted positions to amplify awareness about Tuberculosis, to end the stigma associated with it, and to help patients in your respective states access the available treatments and support.”

Commenting on the honour, she said “I dedicate this investiture to Daniel, one of my staff, who unfortunately lost his life to the disease and to others who we have lost just like him by remaining silent”.

“Starting from now, let us work together by showing compassion, and understanding to end stigma and discrimination,” she added.