…to Tackle Primary Healthcare Gaps, Essential Medicines, Maternal Care
Jos, Plateau State – The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, has unveiled the key priorities that will guide discussions at the 11th State Council on Health, which officially opens on Tuesday, 19th August 2025, in Jos.
Speaking during a press conference held at the Ministry of Health on Monday, Dr. Baamlong said the Council, themed “Repositioning Plateau State Health Systems Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage,” will focus on three strategic areas: strengthening primary healthcare systems, improving access to essential medicines, and tackling maternal and neonatal deaths, particularly in rural communities.
“The need to strengthen our healthcare system has never been more urgent or more relevant,” Dr. Baamlong stated. “This year’s Council will serve as a high-level platform to review our progress, address persistent challenges, and agree on actionable strategies that can transform healthcare delivery across Plateau State.”
He noted that resilient and inclusive health systems are critical to withstanding future shocks such as pandemics, while access to medicines must be improved through sustainable supply chains to ensure that even rural and hard-to-reach areas are not left behind. On maternal and neonatal care, the Commissioner emphasized reducing preventable deaths by increasing skilled birth attendance and strengthening primary health facilities.
During the question-and-answer session, Dr. Baamlong admitted that significant gaps exist in Plateau’s primary healthcare, but assured that the deliberations would produce implementable solutions. He explained that budgeting for the health sector is being revised to address past lapses, including overreliance on donor funding which often left facilities stranded once external support ended.
The press conference was attended by senior officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Josiah Kerlin-Batros; Chairman of the Publicity Committee, Dr. Daniel Mesha; Chief Medical Directors of Plateau Specialist Hospital and Jos University Teaching Hospital; the Executive Secretary of the Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Raymond Jury; and a representative of the Coordinating Minister of Health, among others.
In his closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary stressed that primary healthcare remains the government’s top priority.
“Our goal is not just to identify problems but to implement solutions. We count on the media to help carry the message and hold us accountable as we work to strengthen health services across the state,” he said.
The Council, which will run from August 19–21 at Crispan Hotel, will bring together government agencies, development partners, civil society groups, professional bodies, traditional leaders, and private sector stakeholders. Activities will include technical presentations, breakout sessions, policy dialogues, and the adoption of a communiqué expected to shape Plateau State’s health policies for years to come.
