The Leprosy and Tuberculosis Relief Initiative (LTR), in partnership with ASA Health Partners and in collaboration with YOSACA, has launched a targeted tuberculosis (TB) screening campaign for children aged 0–10 years in Sabon Gari, Nangere Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The initiative focuses on bridging the long-standing gap in pediatric TB detection by proactively identifying undiagnosed cases within the community. Children diagnosed through the exercise will be promptly linked to appropriate treatment and care services.
Pediatric TB remains a critical but often overlooked public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in high-burden states like Yobe. Health experts note that diagnosis in children is more complex due to non-specific symptoms and limited access to child-friendly diagnostic tools, leaving many cases undetected.
Speaking on the intervention, LTR emphasized that the screening exercise reflects its broader commitment to strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery, improving equitable access to TB services, and supporting national efforts to eliminate tuberculosis.
The organization added that collaboration with local partners such as ASA Health Partners and YOSACA is key to reaching underserved populations and ensuring effective community engagement.
The ongoing screening is expected to significantly improve early case detection among children in the area, reduce transmission risks, and enhance treatment outcomes.
LTR reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring that vulnerable populations, especially children, are not left behind in Nigeria’s fight against tuberculosis.
