Plateau Govt Restates Dedication To Revamping Healthcare Sector As NMA Holds Maiden Summit In Jos
Plateau State Renews Commitment to Revamping Healthcare System
The government of Plateau State has reiterated its strong dedication to transforming the healthcare landscape and exceeding national standards in service delivery. Governor Caleb Mutfwang made this announcement on Thursday during the inaugural Business Coalition for Health Summit organized by the Plateau chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Jos.
Themed “Unlocking the Value Chain in Healthcare Financing Through Sustainable Business,” the summit convened influential voices from public institutions, private enterprises, and the medical sector to brainstorm fresh strategies and foster cooperation aimed at enhancing health services.
Speaking at the event, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged existing progress but emphasized that greater strides are needed. “Our current achievements are just the beginning,” he remarked. “We are focused on transparency and measurable impact. By God’s grace, we’ll realize our vision. This summit signifies the launch of meaningful partnerships between government and private players.”
The governor also disclosed that discussions were underway with a German group to initiate an international exchange program for healthcare workers from Plateau, which aims to boost their skills and improve service delivery.
Turning to recent outbreaks of violence in Plateau communities, Governor Mutfwang condemned the attacks—allegedly committed by herders—as acts of genocide. “This is not simply a land dispute or a farmer-herder issue. It is an intentional attempt to wipe out a people,” he declared, calling for a more truthful account of the situation’s severity.
Former governor and current senator representing Plateau South, Simon Lalong, also addressed participants. He underscored the essential role of healthcare in national development. “A healthy population is crucial for any country’s progress. That’s why our administration focused on substantial investments in the health sector,” he explained.
In his welcome address, Dr. Yilji Cashmir Kumtap, Chairman of NMA Plateau, praised the private sector’s commitment and efficiency, stating that dedication often achieves more than natural ability. He pointed out that limited progress had been made due to overreliance on government and medical professionals alone. “We need to embrace broader collaboration to move forward,” he stated.
Dr. Kumtap shared emotional stories to highlight healthcare gaps in the state. One involved a retired officer who died from a cardiac condition due to the absence of a catheterization laboratory in Plateau. “Even after eleven years, such a facility is still missing,” he said. In contrast, he told of a business mogul who survived a heart attack in London, thanks to immediate medical attention. “One life was lost due to systemic gaps; the other was saved by timely intervention,” he noted.
Calling for a joint effort, Dr. Kumtap clarified that this was not about relinquishing government duties but about complementing them. “Historically, private individuals and businesses have often spearheaded infrastructure development ahead of government,” he added.
He cited Narayana Health in India, founded by Dr. Devi Shetty, as a model of how innovation can make advanced surgeries affordable. “Just as Henry Ford revolutionized car ownership, Dr. Shetty made heart surgeries accessible. We can replicate that success by aligning business interests with social good,” he concluded.
Chairing the occasion, former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia, Bagudu Hirse, echoed the need for increased philanthropic engagement and stronger involvement from the private sector in health sector development. He called on business leaders and healthcare stakeholders to build deeper partnerships.
Sim Shagaya, Chancellor of Mi’va University—represented by Vice Chancellor Tewo Alurogu—emphasized that while partnerships are critical, enabling policies are equally vital to ensure long-term reforms. “Policy frameworks must support and sustain these partnerships for lasting change,” he said.
A major feature of the summit was the presentation of a healthcare needs analysis for Plateau State. Several individuals, including Governor Mutfwang and Senator Lalong, received awards recognizing their significant contributions to healthcare progress.
The event ended with a collective appeal for action, urging stakeholders across all sectors to work collaboratively in addressing the state’s healthcare challenges and improving the wellbeing of its residents.
