Kano State has emerged as the region with the highest per capita tuberculosis (TB) cases globally, accounting for a staggering 30% of Nigeria's total TB burden, according to Professor Hamisu Salihu, Director-General of the Kano Independent Research Center Trust (KIRCT).

The alarming revelation came during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between KIRCT and the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC) in Kano on Tuesday.

Professor Salihu emphasized that the state's overwhelming TB burden necessitated the establishment of a full-fledged TB laboratory at KIRCT, which will significantly advance clinical research capabilities in northern Nigeria.

"Kano State deserves a full laboratory given the burden of tuberculosis," he stated, highlighting the critical need for enhanced diagnostic and research facilities in the region.

Beyond addressing tuberculosis, KIRCT has developed several innovative healthcare solutions, including a Hausa chatbot that bridges communication gaps between patients and healthcare providers while creating electronic medical records. The center also offers mammogram testing for breast cancer patients, a service that was previously unavailable in the region.

"The MoU with PVAC aims to enhance clinical trials and capacity building at KIRCT, with plans to establish the center as a regional hub for clinical research," Professor Salihu added.

PVAC National Coordinator, Abdu Mukhtar, expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing its potential for impactful research and collaboration that could transform healthcare delivery in northern Nigeria and beyond.

The establishment of advanced research facilities in Kano represents a significant step toward addressing the state's pressing health challenges, particularly its disproportionate tuberculosis burden, while strengthening Nigeria's overall healthcare research infrastructure.