The United States Agency for International Development has announced the establishment of ‘local organizations networks’ that would work for the detection and treatment of Tuberculosis cases in Nigeria over the next five years.

The networks funded at N17.1 billion ($45 million) are divided into three regions covering 18 states where data show the TB burden to be highest.

This was disclosed in a statement by the US Mission in Abuja, on Tuesday.

“With these new awards, USAID is making a major commitment to reducing and ultimately eradicating TB in Nigeria. The key will be reducing the number of undetected cases while getting those who test positive into free treatment.  TB is completely curable,” USAID Mission Director, Stephen Haykin, stated.

The statement said the first $30 million award will establish a Tuberculosis Local Organizations Network Regions 1 and 2 in 14 states to be implemented by KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation Nigeria.

The second, $15m award, went to the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, covering four states in Region 3.

Under both of the awards, the USAID said KNCV and IHVN would work to rapidly improve TB case detection and treatment in communities using a differentiated model approach while strengthening resilient and sustainable systems for TB control until 2025.

The statement said, “Regions 1 includes Bauchi, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Taraba states.  Region 2 comprises Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Imo, and Rivers.  Region 3 covers Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Osun states.

“The World TB Day 2020 theme ‘It’s Time’ highlights the need to urgently accelerate the TB response to save lives and end suffering. 

“Along with our newly awarded local partners, USAID remains strong in our commitment to work towards a TB-free Nigeria.”