FG Allocates N73.4bn for TB Drugs, Expands Diagnostic Testing Nationwide

The Federal Government has set aside approximately N73.4 billion to procure tuberculosis (TB) drugs and other essential medical commodities, aiming to prevent any potential stock-out of TB medications across Nigeria.

In addition, the government is expanding the rollout of near-point-of-care TB diagnostic technology, including the Pluslife Mini Dock molecular testing devices, to improve early and accurate detection, especially in remote and underserved communities.

Dr. Charles Nzelu, Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, disclosed this on Tuesday during a Pre–World TB Day press briefing in Abuja. He explained that the initiative is part of proactive measures to sustain TB control efforts following the withdrawal of funding by major global donors from programs targeting AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (ATM) worldwide.

“The reduction in international support affected global disease control efforts,” Nzelu said, noting that the Nigerian government approved $200 million in domestic funding to bridge the gap. Part of this funding will go toward procuring TB drugs and other critical commodities that were previously supplied by global partners.

He added, “We are anticipating potential shortages of some medications in the coming months, and we have already initiated procurement processes to ensure there will be no stock-out of TB drugs in Nigeria.”

Nzelu also highlighted that over 1,000 near-point-of-care TB diagnostic devices are being deployed nationwide. This expansion is expected to enhance testing capacity, bring molecular-grade TB diagnostics closer to communities, reduce delays in diagnosis, and ensure that geographical barriers do not prevent Nigerians from accessing TB testing.

The government emphasized that these measures are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and safeguard public health amid global funding challenges.