Health experts have raised concern over Nigeria’s tuberculosis (TB) crisis, revealing that the country ranks first in Africa and sixth globally in TB prevalence.

The disclosure was made by Associate Professor John Bimba, Director of the Zankli Research Centre at Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, during activities marking World TB Day 2026 on Tuesday. He was represented by Dr. Aminu Babayi at the event.

The commemoration, themed “Led by Zankli Research Centre; powered by Communities,” marks March 24 — the day Robert Koch identified the bacterium responsible for TB in 1882 — and serves to raise awareness while honouring those who have died from the disease.

Bimba explained that tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has existed for over 10,000 years and has been historically referred to by names such as consumption, white plague, and wasting disease.

He noted that TB remains the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent globally. According to him, an estimated 10.7 million people contracted the disease in 2024, including 5.8 million men, 3.7 million women, and 1.2 million children.

The expert said TB spreads through respiratory droplets, adding that while practices like covering the mouth when coughing help reduce transmission, the bacteria can persist on surfaces depending on environmental conditions such as ventilation and humidity.

He advised regular handwashing, use of sanitisers, and an end to stigma against infected persons, stressing that TB is curable within six months if properly treated.

“Persistent cough, unexplained fever, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes are major symptoms. Early detection and access to free testing and treatment are critical to reducing the burden,” he said.

Also speaking, Professor Toyosi Adekeye of the Light Consortium at Bingham University emphasised the need for gender-sensitive strategies in tackling TB, noting that men are disproportionately affected but are less likely to seek medical care.

He warned that untreated cases among men could increase the risk of transmission within households.

Adekeye highlighted ongoing efforts by the Light Consortium, a global health programme funded by UK Aid and operating across countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, and the United Kingdom, to improve TB care through research and community-based interventions.

He stressed the importance of engaging community leaders to boost awareness and reiterated that TB screening, testing, and treatment remain free in Nigeria.

“Recognising early symptoms such as prolonged cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss can save lives. Increased awareness and prompt action are essential to controlling the disease,” he added.