Nigeria: Plateau Records 11,000 Tuberculosis Cases in 2026

Plateau State in Nigeria has reported an estimated 11,000 tuberculosis cases in 2026, with 2,047 cases identified between July and September. The Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme's Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Mr. Yohanna Bot, revealed this during a media-focused advocacy meeting in Jos. Bot emphasized that tuberculosis remains a significant public health issue in Plateau State, exacerbated by the region's lifestyle and crowded living conditions.

Based on a prevalence rate of 219 per 100,000 population, over 11,000 people in the state are affected by the airborne disease. The majority of cases were discovered during the state's quarterly survey, which identified 2,047 patients and placed them on treatment. Bot highlighted that risk factors contributing to TB prevalence include malnutrition, advanced age, weakened immune systems, particularly among children under five and those living with HIV, as well as stigmas and misconceptions surrounding the disease.

He also pointed out that Nigeria ranks first in Africa and sixth globally in tuberculosis burden and is home to the world's highest number of people affected by malaria and the second-largest HIV/AIDS burden.