Kebbi Records 3,000–7,000 TB Cases Annually as First Lady Launches LG Ambassadors Campaign | Nigeria News Today
By Abdullahi Tukur, Birnin Kebbi
Birnin Kebbi — The Bureau News reports that Kebbi State records between 3,000 and 7,000 tuberculosis (TB) cases annually, as the Wife of the Governor, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris, inaugurated Local Government Ambassadors to intensify the fight against the disease.
Nigeria News Today: First Lady Inaugurates TB Ambassadors
The governor’s wife inaugurated the wives of the 21 Local Government Chairmen as TB Ambassadors across their respective councils.
The event followed a rally held to commemorate World Tuberculosis Day, aimed at strengthening grassroots awareness and community engagement in tackling tuberculosis in Kebbi State.
She urged the ambassadors to use their positions to sensitize communities, promote early testing, and support patients undergoing treatment, stressing that collective action remains key to eliminating the disease.
The Bureau News: Government Push to Improve Detection and Treatment
Speaking at the event, the State Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Samaila Yakubu Augie, described the initiative as timely and impactful in addressing the burden of tuberculosis.
He noted that the involvement of women and community leaders at the grassroots level would significantly improve case detection, reduce stigma, and enhance treatment outcomes.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing free diagnosis and treatment services, urging residents to take advantage of available healthcare interventions.
TB Cases Rise with Improved Surveillance
The Programme Manager, Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control, Shehu Auta Gele, said tuberculosis remains a major public health concern but is both preventable and curable when detected early.
He disclosed that before recent interventions, Kebbi State recorded between 3,000 and 7,000 TB cases annually.
However, in 2024, more than 17,000 cases were detected, including over 3,000 children, while in 2025, the number rose to over 22,000 cases, with more than 4,000 children affected.
He attributed the increase to improved surveillance systems, heightened awareness, and expanded community outreach programmes.
LG Breakdown and Community Impact
According to him, Fakai Local Government Area recorded the lowest number of cases, while Bagudo Local Government had the highest.
He emphasized that early detection remains critical in controlling the spread of tuberculosis across communities.
The development highlights the growing commitment of the Kebbi State Government and its partners toward eliminating tuberculosis through sustained advocacy and community-driven interventions.
Ambassadors Pledge Support
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated ambassadors, Hajiya Halira Tanimu Kangiwa expressed appreciation to the First Lady for the opportunity to serve as TB champions.
She assured of their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at reducing the disease burden across Kebbi State.
The Bureau News will continue to track health developments as part of its coverage of Nigeria News Today.
