Plateau Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, has said that only 5,397 tuberculosis cases were officially recorded out of an estimated 11,549 cases in 2025.
Baamlong made the disclosure on Monday in Jos while briefing newsmen to commemorate the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day, themed “Yes! We can end TB: led by countries, powered by people.”
The commissioner expressed concern that the figure highlights a significant notification gap.
He attributed the gap to patients living in very poor communities where access to health facilities is a challenge.
He pointed out that the state has 640 out of 1,470 public and private health facilities offering free integrated tuberculosis control services.
Baamlong urged residents to seek medical attention promptly if they experience a persistent cough or other symptoms associated with TB.
“Persons who experience persistent cough for over two weeks, night sweats, and weight loss should avail themselves for testing.
“The state government is committed to strengthening TB control programmes and improving healthcare delivery to reduce the burden and to make the state free of the disease.
“Let me particularly thank Governor Caleb Mutfwang for prioritising efforts towards ending TB in the state,” he said.
The commissioner also thanked the various health implementing partners for their contributions in making Plateau TB-free.
(NAN)
