PLAN Foundation joins the global community in commemorating World Tuberculosis Day 2026 under the theme “Yes, We Can End TB” a bold declaration of hope and a call to action, emphasizing that ending tuberculosis is within reach through coordinated efforts, innovation, and strong community engagement.
Understanding Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, caused by bacteria that primarily affect the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Despite being preventable and curable, TB continues to pose a serious public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB)
Of particular concern is Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB), a more severe form of TB that does not respond to standard first-line treatment. DR-TB presents significant challenges due to longer and more complex treatment regimens, increased costs, and lower success rates.
This year, PLAN Foundation places special emphasis on raising awareness about DR-TB, advocating for early detection, improved access to treatment, and stronger support systems for affected individuals.
PLAN Foundation Interventions
In line with its commitment to advancing public health and community well-being, PLAN Foundation continues to drive impactful interventions through:
- Community Awareness and Digital Engagement via webinars, social media campaigns, and community outreach initiatives to educate the public on TB prevention, symptoms, and treatment. Through these platforms, we disseminate accurate information, amplifies survivor voices, and combats stigma and misinformation surrounding TB and DR-TB.
- Advocacy and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration which includes advocating for increased funding, improved policy implementation, and enhanced access to diagnostic and treatment services.
Our Commitment
In line with our mission, PLAN Foundation is committed to supporting and empowering women, youth, men, and people living with disabilities through healthcare interventions, research, advocacy, and service delivery. We believe that tackling TB goes beyond medical treatment, it requires addressing stigma, improving living conditions, and promoting equitable access to quality healthcare services.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where every woman, man, and child is enabled to take control of their lives and pursue happiness as a basic and inalienable right. Ending TB is essential to achieving this vision, as the disease continues to undermine health, productivity, and overall well-being in communities.
Call to Action
On this World TB Day, PLAN Foundation calls on:
- Government and policymakers to increase investments in TB and DR-TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Healthcare workers to intensify efforts in early detection, proper case management, and patient support.
- Communities and individuals to seek timely medical attention, adhere strictly to treatment, and support those affected by TB.
- Partners and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and scale up innovative, community-driven solutions. Upcoming Webinar
To commemorate this important day and further amplify awareness, PLAN Foundation will be hosting a webinar on Friday, 27th March at 3:00 PM. This session will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, expert insights, and collective dialogue on ending TB, with particular focus on addressing drug-resistant TB. Participation details and access links will be shared across all our social media platforms.
Closing Statement
The message remains clear and resolute:
Yes, We Can End TB—through collective responsibility, sustained commitment, and unified action.
PLAN Foundation is a member of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care (IAPAC), the World Patients Alliance (WPA), the International AIDS Society (IAS), the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), the Stop TB Partnership, the International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (IAPO), the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (IUATLD), the Global Health Council (GHC), as well as various other relevant regional and global networks, movements, and professional associations aligned with its vision of a Nigeria where the individual, family, and community are adequately empowered to protect themselves against poverty, underdevelopment, and the spread of diseases.
For more details on PLAN Foundation, engage us on our social media accounts on
X (Twitter): @NG_PLAN
Instagram: @planfoundationng
Facebook: @PLANFoundationNG
YouTube: @PLANFoundationNG
Ifedayo Osemwegie,
Advocacy, Strategic Communication and Media Officer,
PLAN Health Advocacy and Development Foundation (PLAN Foundation)
+2348038320421
ifedayo@planfoundation.org.ng
