The Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (Edo State Chapter), marked World Tuberculosis Day on the 24th of March 2026 with the theme “Yes, We Can End TB.”
The event took place at Ugbekun Primary Health Centre in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area. It featured activities aimed at raising awareness and improving access to care. These included free screening and counseling for TB, HIV, and prostate assessment (PSA), as well as blood sugar and blood pressure checks.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary EDSPHCDA, Dr. Coulson Oahimire Osoikhia, said “this day is a strong reminder of the urgent need to tackle tuberculosis, which remains a serious public health issue even though it is preventable and curable”. He explained that the theme calls for teamwork among government, partners, health professionals, and communities to create awareness to reduce stigma and support patients through treatment and recovery. He also stressed that TB treatment is free of charge at DOT centres located in primary healthcare facilities across Edo State, where residents can access TB screening, diagnosis and treatment.
In the same vein, the Chairman of the Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN) Edo State Chapter, Prof. Andrew Obi, advised the public to watch out for symptoms such as persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, chest pain and fever that persist. He urged anyone with these symptoms to visit a health facility for proper testing, diagnosis and treatment, noting that early detection saves lives and that treatment is free.
Also, the Executive Chairman of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, who was represented by the Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Beauty Ehikioya, delivered his message at the event. In the address, the Chairman described TB as a deadly disease that still affects many people. He stated that activities such as awareness campaigns, screening, and treatment are key steps toward achieving a TB-free society. He reaffirmed the Local Government’s commitment to supporting health programs that bring services closer to the people and encouraged residents to take advantage of the free TB screening and treatment at Ugbekun Primary Healthcare Centre.
Furthermore, the event was well attended by dignitaries and stakeholders, including the Secretary to the Local Government (SLG) Hon. Patrick Emokpai, members of the Ikpoba Okha Legislative Council, NPHCDA Edo State Coordinator Mr. Jerry Osawe-Lawani, the Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Dr. Eseigbe Efeomon, the TB focal person EDSPHCDA Mrs. Chuks-Obianke Veronica, the Medical Officer of Health Ikpoba Okha Dr Beauty Ehikioya, EDSPHCDA staff, members of the Ikpoba Okha Local Health Authority, the Dean of Student Affairs Edo State College of Science and Health Technology
Dr Osezua Ozinegbe, representatives of the Civil Defense Corps, representatives of the Islamic community, health workers, market women, students, mothers and caregivers, community residents and other healthcare professionals.