Benue Assembly Passes TB Elimination, Anti-discrimination Bill Into Law

Benue State House of Assembly has passed the State Tuberculosis Elimination, Human Rights Protection and Anti-Discrimination Bill, 2026 into law.

The law strengthens the legal framework for tuberculosis prevention, treatment and protection of the rights of people affected by TB.

The bill, sponsored by Hon. Simon Gabo, deputy chief whip and member representing Mata State Constituency of Ushongo local government area, received its first reading on September 24, 2026 and was subsequently referred to the House Standing Committee on Health for further consideration.

The bill was passed during plenary yesterday, after the speaker, Rt. Hon. Berger Emberga, presented it before the House for consideration and the members voted in support of its passage.

The bill, which becomes law when assented by the governor,  recognises tuberculosis as not only a public health concern but also a human rights and social justice issue, particularly given the stigma and discrimination often experienced by people affected by TB in healthcare, workplaces, schools and communities. It seeks to protect their dignity, rights and livelihoods while strengthening the state’s response to tuberculosis.

Among other provisions, the bill establishes responsibilities for government institutions, healthcare facilities, employers and educational institutions in TB prevention, treatment, support and non-discrimination. It also promotes access to diagnosis and treatment, confidentiality, informed consent, community-based services and social protection for people affected by TB.

‎The legislation further provides a framework for balancing public health measures, including screening, contact tracing, notification and infection control, with the protection of fundamental human rights.

‎ It also promotes accountability, community participation and the involvement of TB survivors and civil society in the state’s response.

‎The passage of the law marks an important legislative development in Benue State’s efforts to address tuberculosis through a rights-based and people-centred approach, with effective implementation expected to help reduce stigma, improve access to care, and strengthen efforts towards TB elimination in the State.

‎Benue State continues to carry a significant TB burden. In 2025, the State recorded 10,674 TB cases, compared with 10,618 cases in 2024, making Benue the highest-burden state in the North Central zone and one of the states with the highest TB burden nationally.

‎The state also accounts for approximately 10 per cent of Nigeria’s reported TB burden, while more than 25 per cent of recorded TB cases are reported to be co-infected with HIV. ‎Hence, the legislation marks a significant milestone.