The Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination in Bauchi State, Aminu Hamayyo, has reiterated that increased funding, effective resource management, and collaboration with stakeholders are essential to reducing TB incidence and improving health outcomes in the state.

The Commissioner also highlighted the State Government’s strong commitment to addressing the Tuberculosis (TB) burden through strategic planning and implementation of activities.

He made these remarks during an advocacy visit by the Bauchi-based NGO, Langa Women Development Initiative, on Friday at his office in Bauchi. The visit focused on financing TB management and eradication through prompt and adequate releases of budgetary allocations.

He lamented that Tuberculosis control and management have been relegated to the background compared to other public health diseases in the state. The Commissioner pledged to support the relevant agencies by increasing budgetary allocations for health services, specifically targeting TB programs.

According to him, “This funding is essential for supporting TB diagnosis, treatment, and prevention initiatives and building the capacity of workers.”

He added, “The government is committed to budgetary allocations for TB control and will support the disbursement and timely release of allocated funds, which are crucial for effective TB management.”

The Commissioner reassured that collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other relevant bodies will continue to improve TB care and management, ensure adequate funding, and optimize resource allocation.

Similarly, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adamu Sambo, stated that his ministry would ensure the consistent availability of TB drugs and diagnostic equipment, as well as address logistical issues in remote areas.

Dr. Sambo further pledged to strengthen coordination mechanisms between the state government and CSOs to ensure the seamless implementation of TB programs.

He noted, “Improving transparency in budget allocation and fund utilization is essential to building trust and ensuring that resources are effectively used.”

The Commissioner added, “We will also work on enhancing community awareness and reducing stigma associated with tuberculosis.”

Earlier, Amb. Grace Maikudi, Executive Director of Langa Women Development Initiative, stated that their visit aimed to ensure that funds are specifically allocated for TB control activities, facilitating better planning and execution.

Maikudi emphasized, “The visit was to ensure that a dedicated budget line is maintained to enable targeted interventions, improve resource allocation, and enhance the overall effectiveness of TB control programs.”

She added, “Regular delays in fund disbursement hinder the timely implementation of TB control activities, leading to stockouts of TB medications, interruptions in TB services, and reduced outreach efforts.”