…Call for ‘Swift Implementation.’
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Civil Society and Health stakeholders have commended the Federal Government for approving ₦62 billion for the procurement of Tuberculosis (TB) commodities, while warning that delays could worsen shortages and lead to avoidable deaths.
In a statement, the group under the leadership of Mr. Isah Danssaallah, North West zonal coordinator, Civil Society for the eradication of tuberculosis in Nigeria (TB Network), praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Executive Council, FEC, and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for the approval.
The group described the move as a landmark step to strengthen Nigeria’s TB response, reduce reliance on external donors, and support local manufacturing of essential anti-TB medicines.
The statement averred that, “Nigeria has one of the highest TB burdens globally. This investment offers renewed hope to patients, healthcare workers, civil society organizations, and all stakeholders working tirelessly to end TB.”
However, the group expressed concern over commodity shortages already being reported in health facilities nationwide.
It stated that any further delay in releasing funds, starting procurement, and distributing medicines could cause treatment interruptions, increased transmission as well as the emergence of drug-resistant TB, and loss of lives.
To prevent this, it called on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Budget Office of the Federation, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, and other implementing agencies to fast-track the process.
The stakeholders specifically urged authorities to release funds without administrative delays; expedite procurement using emergency public health procedures; address existing commodity gaps immediately; begin distribution to states and treatment centres once procurement is done, and provide regular implementation updates to ensure transparency.
“This approval is not only a financial commitment; it is a commitment to saving lives. Its true impact will be measured not by the amount approved, but by how quickly lifesaving medicines reach the patients, who urgently need them,” the statement added.
According to the group, “Every day of delay puts lives at risk. Every day of timely action saves lives.”