The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched the World Tuberculosis (TB) Day 2025 Community Outreach in Jabi Village, reaffirming its commitment to eradicating TB through early detection, free treatment, and grassroots engagement.
Speaking at the flag-off event, Dr. Dan Gadzama, Acting Director of the Public Health Department, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, emphasized the need for a community-driven approach to combating TB rather than relying solely on hospital-based interventions.
He highlighted TB as a major public health challenge, particularly due to its close link with HIV, which increases susceptibility to the disease. Dr. Gadzama also noted that Nigeria ranks sixth globally in TB burden and holds the highest prevalence in Africa, underscoring the urgency of early diagnosis and treatment.
To expand the outreach, the initiative will extend to five additional communities, ensuring that anyone diagnosed with TB receives free treatment at designated health facilities.
A key highlight of the campaign is the deployment of AI-powered portable digital X-rays, which will provide instant chest X-ray results at no cost to residents.
“The AI-powered portable digital X-rays will enable faster diagnosis without the need for transport costs or long waiting times. Within a minute, results are ready with an interpretation,” Dr. Gadzama stated.
This initiative marks a significant step in FCTA’s fight against TB, leveraging technology and community engagement to improve health outcomes.
