The Lagos State Health District V has intensified its tuberculosis (TB) awareness campaign, calling on residents, particularly market men and women, to take advantage of free screening and treatment services available across the state.
The Permanent Secretary of the District, Oladapo Asiyanbi, made the call during a TB outreach programme held at Boundary Market Roundabout in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The event was part of activities commemorating World Tuberculosis Day, themed “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Government Powered by People.”
Dr. Asiyanbi described tuberculosis as a major public health concern and stressed the importance of early detection in curbing its spread. He advised residents experiencing a persistent cough lasting one to two weeks to visit the nearest Primary Health Care facility for proper diagnosis.
He noted that TB is curable and that confirmed cases are placed on a six-month treatment regimen, which ensures recovery when properly adhered to. He also reaffirmed that TB testing and treatment services remain completely free within the health district, which caters to over 3.5 million residents.
According to him, tuberculosis is a bacterial disease, not spiritual, urging residents to seek medical attention promptly and avoid delays in treatment.
Dr. Asiyanbi further encouraged youths to support the campaign by using social media to drive awareness and assist in mobilising communities for early detection and treatment. He expressed confidence that with government support and community participation, tuberculosis can be effectively controlled.
The outreach programme, organised in collaboration with Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, provided free medical services including TB screening, blood sugar tests, blood pressure checks, and malaria testing, targeting market communities to improve access to healthcare.
Also speaking, the First Lady of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Bolanle Akindipe, urged residents to participate actively in the exercise, noting that tuberculosis spreads through coughing and emphasizing the need for early testing and treatment.
Dr. Asiyanbi commended the support of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the First Lady, Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for their continued commitment toward strengthening healthcare delivery and advancing efforts to achieve a tuberculosis-free Lagos.