By Bolanle Lawal
The Ekiti Government has intensified efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) through advocacy and free screening to mark the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day.
Health workers, residents, development partners and government officials participated in rallies held in Ajilosun, Odo Ado, Adebayo/Olorunda and other parts of Ado-Ekiti as part of activities to commemorate the day.
The campaign aimed to raise awareness about TB, promote early detection and reduce stigma associated with the disease.
The rally moved through major streets of the state capital, with participants displaying banners bearing messages such as “Yes! We Can End TB” and “Test Early, Treat Early”.
Residents were offered free screening at designated centres, including Fayose Market in Ajilosun, Emu Odi Primary Health Care Centre in Odo Ado and Olorunda Health Care Centre in Adebayo.
The Chairman of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Funke Ogunbunmi, who was represented by the outgoing Executive Secretary of the agency, Dr Rasheed Adepoju, stressed the importance of community-based interventions.
“Taking TB services closer to the people is key to ending the disease. Early detection saves lives and prevents transmission,” Ogunbunmi said.
The chairman was represented by the outgoing Executive Secretary of the agency, Dr Rasheed Adepoju.
Also speaking, the Programme Manager, Ekiti State Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, Mr Adebayo Orojo, commended the state government’s proactive approach to containing the disease.
“Ekiti has demonstrated strong political will in tackling TB. Continued collaboration with partners will accelerate progress toward eradication,” he said.
The State Technical Officer of the Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH), Dr Odeyemi Olatunji, urged residents to seek early medical attention.
“We urge residents to report symptoms such as persistent cough, weight loss and night sweats.
“Early treatment is free and available in all health facilities in the state,” he said.
A community leader, Mr Wale Oloidi, described the initiative as beneficial, noting that many residents might not have come forward without the outreach.
Health educators also distributed informational materials and sensitised residents on the need to complete treatment and avoid misinformation.
Officials said that the awareness campaign and free screening would continue until March 27 across health facilities in the state.
World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually to raise awareness of the health, social and economic impact of tuberculosis and to accelerate efforts to end the global epidemic. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
