The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Baamlong, has disclosed that only 5,397 tuberculosis cases were officially recorded out of an estimated 11,549 cases in 2025, highlighting a significant gap in case detection.
Baamlong made the revelation on Monday in Jos while briefing journalists to commemorate the World Tuberculosis Day 2026, themed “Yes! We can end TB: led by countries, powered by people.”
The commissioner expressed concern over the disparity between estimated and reported cases, noting that it reflects a serious notification gap in the state’s tuberculosis control efforts.
He attributed the situation to limited access to healthcare services, particularly among residents in remote and underserved communities.
According to him, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with partners, is intensifying efforts to bridge the gap by expanding diagnostic services to rural areas.
Baamlong warned that undiagnosed tuberculosis patients pose a major public health risk, noting that a single untreated patient could infect between 10 and 15 people annually.
He, however, reassured residents that tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment remain completely free of charge in the state.
The commissioner further revealed that 640 out of 1,470 public and private health facilities in Plateau currently provide free, integrated tuberculosis control services.
He urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with tuberculosis.
“Persons who experience persistent cough for over two weeks, night sweats, and weight loss should avail themselves for testing,” he said.
Baamlong reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening tuberculosis control programmes and improving healthcare delivery to reduce the disease burden.
He also commended Caleb Mutfwang for prioritising efforts aimed at eliminating tuberculosis in the state.
The commissioner further appreciated the contributions of development partners and health organisations supporting the state’s TB control initiatives, expressing optimism that sustained collaboration would help achieve a tuberculosis-free Plateau.
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