An appeal has gone to the National Assembly to urgently strengthen the proposed TB Anti-Discrimination Bill to ensure greater protection for the rights and dignity of people affected by the disease.
Tuberculosis (TB) Advocacy Network made the appeal during an advocacy engagement in Abuja.
It stressed the need for the legislation to include stronger provisions to eliminate stigma, prevent discrimination, and guarantee equal access to healthcare, employment, education, and other essential services for persons living with or affected by TB.
According to the network, fear of discrimination remains one of the key barriers preventing many Nigerians from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment, thereby undermining efforts to control the spread of tuberculosis.
The advocates urged lawmakers to ensure that the bill reflects a rights-based approach by providing effective legal remedies for victims of TB-related discrimination while promoting public awareness and accountability.
They noted that enacting comprehensive anti-discrimination law would complement ongoing efforts to eradicate tuberculosis in Nigeria and support the country’s commitment to achieving global TB elimination targets.
The network also called on stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, healthcare providers and development partners, to support the passage of the bill and its effective implementation once enacted.
