By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The First Lady, Remi Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Primary Health Care Centrs , PHC, to strengthen Tuberculosis, TB , response in Abuja.
The First Lady directed the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, to facilitate the establishment of a Primary Healthcare Centre to combat tuberculosis ,TB, Sauka Community in Abuja.
Mrs. Tinubu, who also serves as the Global and National Stop TB Champion, made this call in Abuja during the commemoration of 2025 World Tuberculosis Day.
The 2025 World TB event was organized by the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat and Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, World Health Organization, among other development partners.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady emphasized the importance of grassroots interventions in the fight against TB, adding that this year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.
This year’s theme locally translated means “We Fit Run Am; A Collective Call for Action Against TB” to better connect with the community.
The First lady said, “To support the fight against this communicable disease, I will not only donate one billion naira, but I also approve the request for the establishment of a Primary Healthcare Centre in Sauka Community.”
“This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for an efficient healthcare system.”
The Mandate Secretary, Dr. Fasawe will oversee the implementation of this project through the support of our dedicated FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike,” Mrs. Tinubu stated.
She further noted that the new facility will serve as a critical hub for TB detection, treatment, and general healthcare services, ensuring that residents receive timely and quality medical attention.
“Despite being preventable and treatable, TB remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, ranking the country among those with the highest TB burden globally.”
“This underscores the need for improved healthcare services and stronger community-based interventions”, the First Lady noted.
Fasawe commended the First Lady for her dedication and strong support in the fight against TB elimination.
She further noted the dedication of the FCT’s healthcare workers, whose efforts have led to major improvements in the health system.
“The establishment of the new Primary Healthcare Centre in Sauka marks a significant step toward enhancing healthcare services, improving TB control, and ensuring accessible healthcare for all in the FCT.’ Fasawe reaffirmed .
Also, FCT residents received free TB testing.
Those in attendance at this year’s commemoration of TB in Abuja were Hajiya
Nana Shettima, Wife of the Vice President, Honourable Members of the National Assembly,
Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health ,
Mrs.Adekemi Nanpad, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Wives of the Federal Executive Council Members
Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Country Representative
HRH Alh. Dr. Usman Nga Kupi, Sapeyi of Garki, and other dignitaries.
