FCT Records 16,000 Tuberculosis Cases Annually with 94% Treatment Success Rate
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has disclosed an annual tally of approximately 16,000 tuberculosis (TB) cases, accompanied by a notable 94 per cent treatment success rate. This information was revealed by Dr Dan Gasama, the Director of Public Health at the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (FCT-HSES), during a community outreach event in Abuja marking the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day.
Progress and Challenges in TB Control
Dr Gasama highlighted that TB-related deaths have decreased by about 64 per cent over recent years, yet he emphasised that tuberculosis remains a significant public health issue both in Nigeria and globally. He provided context by noting that worldwide, an estimated 10.7 million people fell ill with TB in the past year, resulting in around 1.23 million deaths, including 150,000 among individuals living with HIV.
With a prevalence rate of 219 cases per 100,000 population, Nigeria continues to be classified among high TB-burden countries. Within this national framework, the FCT accounts for roughly 16,000 cases each year, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and intervention.
Improved Detection and Treatment Outcomes
In 2025, Nigeria recorded over 467,000 TB cases, the highest number ever documented. Dr Gasama attributed this increase to enhanced detection methods, strengthened surveillance systems, and expanded community outreach initiatives. He further explained that early diagnosis and proper medical care have been instrumental in achieving the 94 per cent treatment success rate observed in the FCT.
The FCT Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme also made significant strides in 2025, identifying more than 40,171 presumptive cases. From these, 3,679 were confirmed and officially notified, demonstrating improved case management and reporting mechanisms.
Community Outreach and Screening Efforts
The 2026 World Tuberculosis Day commemoration focused on delivering TB awareness, screening, and treatment services directly to high-burden communities. In the Mabushi community, hundreds of residents benefited from free screenings for tuberculosis, malaria, and other health conditions. Medications were distributed on-site, and severe cases were promptly referred to appropriate health facilities for further care.
Support from Health Partners
In a goodwill message, Dr Jibrin Alkasim, the World Health Organisation (WHO) FCT State Coordinator, represented by Dr Jenny Momoh, acknowledged progress in diagnostics, treatment, and community-centred care. He stressed the necessity for sustained investment, innovation, and a robust multisectoral response to effectively end tuberculosis, ensuring that no one is left behind. Dr Alkasim reaffirmed WHO's commitment to supporting elimination efforts.
Additionally, Mrs Teresa Jatau, Programme Manager of TB Network, underscored the critical role of communities in combating TB. She urged FCT residents to embrace early testing and adhere strictly to prescribed treatments, reminding the public that tuberculosis is curable when detected in its initial stages.
