By Femi Ojo
IBADAN – The State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Oyo State, Mrs. Ajolayo Sinmiat Akande, has declared that the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day theme, “Yes! We Can End TB,” must transition from a mere slogan into practical, life-saving actions.
Speaking at the state headquarters on Tuesday, Mrs. Akande emphasized that achieving a tuberculosis-free society requires more than wishful thinking; it demands a collective and sustained commitment from every stakeholder in the health and civic sectors.
Despite years of relentless sensitization campaigns led by the NOA at both state and local government levels, the Director expressed deep concern over the persistent spread of the disease within local communities.
She noted that while healthcare professionals and agencies have remained active, the continued prevalence of TB is “worrisome,” signaling an urgent need for more proactive and coordinated measures to break the chain of transmission.
Mrs. Akande reminded the public that tuberculosis remains a curable disease, provided it is detected early and managed with discipline.
She pointed out that the global goal of elimination is tethered to three critical factors: strict adherence to preventive measures, consistent access to government-approved medications, and the robust funding of public health programs to reach underserved populations.
In a direct appeal to citizens, the Director advised individuals experiencing symptoms such as persistent coughing or sneezing to seek immediate medical attention.
She warned that the release of infectious droplets remains a primary threat, urging the public to stay vigilant. To reduce the risk of infection, she recommended avoiding prolonged close contact with infected persons and maintaining well-ventilated living spaces.
Further highlighting the environmental risks, the NOA boss cautioned against the dangers of overcrowding and the inhalation of cigarette smoke, both of which exacerbate the spread of the airborne disease. She stressed that because tuberculosis spreads easily through the air, personal hygiene and adherence to safety guidelines are the first lines of defense for every resident of Oyo State.
Mrs. Akande also called for an intensification of awareness campaigns, particularly at the grassroots level where information gaps often persist. She urged community leaders and citizens to take up the mantle of advocacy, ensuring that the message of prevention reaches every household to prevent further loss of life to a treatable ailment.
Concluding her address, the State Director reassured the public that the vision of ending tuberculosis is still within reach. She reaffirmed the NOA’s readiness to lead the charge in civic education but maintained that the ultimate success of the “Yes! We Can End TB” campaign depends on the “collective responsibility and sustained action” of the entire citizenry.
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