By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Plateau State Government has confirmed its readiness to host the 11th Plateau State Council on Health, scheduled for Tuesday, August 19 to Thursday, August 21, 2025, in Jos, the state capital.
Addressing a press conference in Jos, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, outlined the objectives and areas of focus for the Council, stressing its importance in strengthening the state’s healthcare system and accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
According to him, this year’s Council, themed “Repositioning Plateau State Health Systems Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage,” underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of location, gender, age, or socioeconomic status, have access to quality, affordable healthcare.
Dr. Baamlong explained that the three-day event will focus on strengthening resilient and inclusive health systems by building a robust structure capable of responding to public health emergencies while ensuring vulnerable groups are not left behind. He said discussions would also center on improving access to essential medicines through strategies that guarantee availability, affordability, and rational use of quality medicines, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. In addition, the Council will address enhancing maternal and neonatal outcomes in rural areas by reducing preventable maternal and child deaths, improving skilled birth attendance, and strengthening primary healthcare services.
He said the Council will bring together stakeholders from all 17 Local Government Areas, including senior officials from the Ministry of Health, development partners, civil society, academia, traditional rulers, and the private health sector.
The event will feature technical presentations, policy dialogues, breakout sessions, and the drafting of a final communiqué to shape future health policies in the state. Governor Caleb Mutfwang is expected to officially declare the Council open on Tuesday, August 19.
Dr. Baamlong disclosed that five subcommittees have been set up to ensure smooth planning and implementation of the event. He emphasized the role of the media in promoting public awareness and engagement before, during, and after the Council.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Mutfwang for his sustained support for the health sector and thanked local and international partners for their collaboration in improving healthcare delivery.
“This is not just a meeting,” Dr. Baamlong said. “It is a defining opportunity to reposition our health sector and ensure quality healthcare becomes a reality for every citizen of Plateau State.”
