By Sarah NEGEDU
As part of efforts of encouraging communities’ interventions in the fight against tuberculosis, Nigeria’s first lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, has called for the establishment of a Primary Healthcare Centre in Federal Capital Territory.
The center to be cited in the Sauka area of Abuja Municipal Area Council, is expected to serve as a critical hub for TB detection, treatment, and general healthcare services.
Mrs. Tinubu, who made the call at an event to commemorate the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day in Abuja, directed the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, to facilitate the establishment of the Primary Healthcare Centre.
The Special Adviser to the Health Secretary, Bola Ajao, said the initiative aims to strengthen healthcare services and combat tuberculosis in the region through the support of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Ajao, in a statement quoted the First Lady stressing the importance of grassroots interventions in the fight against TB. “She explained that this year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” was locally translated to “We Fit Run Am; A Collective Call for Action Against TB” to better connect with the community.
“To support the fight against this communicable disease, I will not only donate ₦1 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.”
Responding, the Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment, Dr. Dolapo 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.
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.
This year celebration brought together key stakeholders, including wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, 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. Usman Nga Kupi, Sapeyi of Garki, among other dignitaries.
The 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, amongst other development partners.
