The Ebonyi State Government marked World Tuberculosis Day 2024 with a call to action for patients to prioritize early diagnosis and treatment. At a press briefing in Abakaliki, Dr. Moses Ekuma, the State Commissioner for Health, emphasized the urgency of combating tuberculosis, urging all stakeholders to ramp up their efforts.
Highlighting the gravity of the disease, Dr. Ekuma underscored the importance of adhering to World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines and embracing innovative approaches. He also stressed the need for collaboration with civil society organizations to drive down tuberculosis rates.
Celebrating the progress made by the state government, Dr. Ekuma outlined initiatives aimed at raising awareness and ensuring prompt treatment for tuberculosis, Buruli ulcer, and leprosy patients. He revealed that the state had invested in advanced diagnostic technology, including Gene-Xpert machines and TB Microscopic Centres in various hospitals.
Despite the state’s achievements, Dr. Ekuma acknowledged the challenge of inadequate funding for the tuberculosis control program. He commended partners such as WHO, CARITAS Nigeria, and the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria for their invaluable support.
During the briefing, Chief Nwite Samuel, the Programme Manager of the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, provided insights into the progress of tuberculosis services in the state. Dr. Hyacinth Ebenyi, the Director of Public Health, expressed gratitude to CARITAS and other partners for their ongoing support and pledged to continue raising awareness in the community.
The event was well-attended by representatives from WHO, CARITAS Group, Instrat Global Health Solutions, and other key stakeholders, underscoring the collective commitment to combatting tuberculosis in Ebonyi State.
