Awka, April 13, 2026 — A Paediatrics professor, Nnamdi Onyire, has warned that the improper use of antibiotics in treating common cough is contributing to the rise of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) cases in Nigeria.
Onyire, of Alex Ekwueme Federal University and Chairman of the Obosi Development Union Committee on Health and Longevity, made this known while speaking with journalists at an event on Monday.
He cautioned that although tuberculosis is a curable illness, the widespread habit of taking antibiotics without medical prescription is creating a serious public health concern.
According to him, TB can be effectively treated, but self-medication must be discouraged to prevent resistance to drugs used in its management.
He stressed that using antibiotics without proper medical guidance could make tuberculosis more difficult and costly to treat.
The professor advised individuals with persistent cough to seek medical attention rather than resorting to self-medication.
He further noted that any cough lasting two weeks or more should be properly investigated in a healthcare facility instead of being treated with antibiotics without diagnosis.
Onyire also emphasized preventive measures, saying tuberculosis is airborne and people should observe good respiratory hygiene, including covering the mouth while coughing and staying in well-ventilated spaces.
He recommended the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine for children, describing vaccination as an important step in reducing infection rates.
He added that the increasing prevalence of HIV/AIDS, which weakens immunity, has also contributed to the resurgence of tuberculosis cases.
In a related comment, a Paediatrics consultant at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Amaka Onubogu, expressed concern over Nigeria’s high tuberculosis burden.
She noted that the country remains among the top eight globally and ranks highest in Africa in terms of TB cases.
Onubogu, however, expressed optimism that ongoing partnerships between Nigeria and international health organisations would help reduce infections and improve treatment outcomes.