Nigeria is expanding its technology-driven public health response to tuberculosis, integrating molecular analysis, digital surveillance systems, and a $54 million drug procurement initiative to improve treatment access and close supply chain gaps.
This announcement was made during a World Tuberculosis Day briefing in Abuja hosted by Stop TB Partnership Nigeria.
Dr. Charles Nzelu, director of public health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, stated that as part of the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (2021-2026), the ministry has adopted technology to help achieve the goal of eliminating tuberculosis as a public health risk in Nigeria.
The Pluslife Mini Dock, a portable molecular diagnostic platform designed to bring lab-grade tuberculosis testing to underserved and distant areas, will be distributed in 1000 units as part of the rollout.
According to him, the platform, spearheaded by the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, combines near-point-of-care diagnostic infrastructure with real-time data systems to improve detection, reporting, and care coordination across the nation.
He stated that by decentralising testing, the system minimises delays and increases coverage, and that continued investment in digital infrastructure and diagnostics is critical to building a robust tuberculosis response.
The initiative is being combined with upgrades to Nigeria's electronic reporting infrastructure, which will allow for real-time transfer of case data from health facilities to a national dashboard, thereby improving visibility, response times, and resource allocation.
Officials stated that the $54 million investment for tuberculosis and HIV drugs will be integrated into a more transparent, digitally controlled supply chain to prevent stockouts and ensure continuity of care.
Dr. Temitope Adetiba, the TB programme lead, provided data showing that over 300,000 TB cases had been found nationwide, including more than 3,000 drug-resistant cases connected to care, as well as expanded screening efforts reaching millions of patients.
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