The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to ending Tuberculosis (TB), as it joined the global community to mark the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day with the flag-off of integrated health outreaches across all 33 local government areas.

The event, held at Molete Primary Health Centre in Ibadan, underscored renewed efforts by the state to tackle TB through expanded access to diagnosis, treatment and community-based interventions.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, described TB as a major public health challenge with far-reaching social and economic implications. She, however, emphasised that the disease remains both preventable and curable with timely and appropriate interventions.

She said the state government is adopting evidence-based strategies, including early detection, effective treatment, and strengthened community engagement, supported by sustained investment in primary healthcare and health system strengthening.

Referencing the 2026 theme, “Yes! We Can End TB!”, the commissioner stressed the need for increased collaboration and funding to bridge gaps in diagnosis and treatment, noting that many cases remain undetected.

Key interventions, she noted, include the decentralisation of TB services to primary healthcare facilities, active case finding through outreach teams, and the deployment of modern diagnostic tools to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.

Ajetunmobi also called on residents and stakeholders to support efforts aimed at reducing stigma associated with the disease and to encourage early health-seeking behaviour, particularly for individuals experiencing persistent cough lasting more than two weeks.

As part of activities marking the day, the commissioner flagged off integrated health outreaches across the state, offering free screening, testing and counselling services for TB, HIV and malaria.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Kehinde Ayinde, disclosed that the state government had released counterpart funding to strengthen TB control programmes. He urged stakeholders to intensify collaboration in line with the national drive of “Led by Government, Powered by the People.”

Development partners, including the World Health Organization, Damien Foundation Belgium, Christianah Olawumi Foundation, Apin Public Health Initiative, and the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, commended the state government for its progress in TB control and pledged continued support towards eradicating the disease.

The event highlights Oyo State’s renewed push to eliminate tuberculosis and improve public health outcomes through inclusive and community-driven approaches.