HEALTHCARE IN PLATEAU STATE: THE MUTFWANG TRANSFORMATION
By Jimmy PJ²
Since assuming office aa the Executive Governor of Plateau State in 2023, His Excellency, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to rebuilding and repositioning the health sector in Plateau State.
Today, the results are clear, healthcare is becoming more accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of the people.
At the heart of this transformation is the expansion of health insurance coverage. In less than a year, enrollment has doubled from about 93,000 in 2023 to over 208,000 the preceeding year. Therefore, opening the door for thousands of Plateau citizens, especially the vulnerable to receive quality healthcare without financial hardship.
This bold step reflects a government that prioritizes the well-being of its people.
Infrastructural development has also taken center stage across the state with the construction and opening of new general hospitals (e.g, Mabudi and Kanke) and provision of equipment like X-ray and ultrasound machines.
Primary Health Centres have undergone massive renovation, such as the renovation of about 82 primary health centres across Plateau. While general hospitals are being constructed and equipped with modern facilities.
The Plateau State Specialist Hospital in Jos has witnessed significant upgrades, ensuring that citizens receive improved and specialized care closer to home.
Understanding the urgency of emergency care, the administration established the Plateau State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (PLASEMSAS), a critical intervention that is already saving lives through timely response and coordinated medical services.
In the area of drug availability and medical supplies, the government has strengthened systems to ensure that essential medicines are accessible, affordable, and efficiently distributed. This effort is complemented by strategic partnerships with reputable organizations, bringing in funding, expertise, and innovation to further strengthen healthcare delivery.
Plateau state now have an improved drug supply and medical logistics through the Plateau Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency, attracting over N590 million support from partners.
And also the introduction of improved drug procurement systems in hospitals to ensure availability and transparency.
Public health has not been left behind. Through proactive interventions, millions of mosquito nets have been distributed to combat malaria, while collaborations with global partners have improved oxygen supply systems and enhanced critical care services across hospitals.
Disease Control and Public Health Interventions distribution of millions of insecticide-treated mosquito nets worth billions of naira to fight malaria. Also, collaboration with partners like Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), to improve oxygen supply systems in our hospitals.
Governor Mutfwang’s administration recognizes that healthcare workers are the backbone of the system. By implementing improved welfare packages, including payment of hazard allowances and addressing salary structures, the government has boosted morale and productivity among health professionals, reducing workforce challenges. Payment of CONMESS (salary structure for doctors) and hazard allowances for other health workers.
Beyond infrastructure and personnel, the government has extended compassion directly to the people by approving substantial funds for medical assistance, ensuring that those in need can access life-saving treatments both locally and abroad. Approval of over N1 billion for medical assistance for patients (local and overseas treatments).
Furthermore, the administration continues to foster international partnerships, embracing innovation through telemedicine (Israeli-supported) and medical exchange programmes (German partnership), positioning Plateau State as a growing hub for modern healthcare delivery.
The government has also provided support for the take-off of the federal medical centre in Wase LGA of Plateau State, and the National orthopaedic hospital in Jos north LGA. Also the renovation and equipping of eye care unit's in Pankshin General Hospital in collaboration/partnership with NGO's.
Indeed, under Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Plateau State is not just renovating and equipping hospitals, it is building hope, restoring dignity, and securing a healthier future for all.
_May, 2026_
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