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Reaffirms govt commitment to healthcare transformation
By David Odama
The Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang has described the killings going in plateau state as an organized genocide against humanity.
This is even as he has reiterated his administrations’ commitment to transforming the state’s healthcare sector and raising its performance above the national average.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang made this known at the weekend in Jos, plateau state during the maiden edition of the Plateau State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Business Coalition for Health Summit held in Jos, the state capital
Governor Mutfwang noted that the activities of the people suspected to be herders in plateau state would not deterred his administration from lifting the social status of the state.
The governor who called on president Bola Tinubu to do more in his determination to reduce insecurity in the country, also urged the security agencies to redubble their efforts in combating what he described as senseless killings in the state.
“What is happening is not a conflict between herders and farmers; it is genocide and an attempt to wipe out a people,” he said, urging a change in the narrative to reflect the reality on ground.
He further condemned the recent incidents in strong terms, describing them as acts of genocide rather than farmer-herder clashes.
On the summit, with the theme ‘unlocking the value chain in healthcare financing through sustainable business governor Mutfwang assured the people of the state of his administrations’ readiness to bring health care delivery to the door steps of the people.
Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the work done so far by his administration, but emphasized that it represents only a fraction of what is planned for Plateau State.
“What we have done so far is just a drop in the ocean compared to what we intend to achieve. We won’t give you money to misuse. by the grace of God, we will get there, and we will keep monitoring as this marks the beginning of our public-private partnership.”
The governor also disclosed that discussions are ongoing with a German consortium to initiate an exchange programmes for Plateau-based doctors and nurses, aimed at enhancing medical expertise and improving healthcare delivery.
Also speaking at the summit, former governor of Plateau State and current representative of Plateau South in the National Assembly, Senator Simon Lalong, stressed the critical role of healthcare in national development. “Healthcare is one area I consider crucial to human development, which is why our rescue administration focused on tangible results in that sector,” he said.
On his part Chairman of NMA Plateau State, Dr. Yilji Cashmir Kumtap praised the efficiency of the private sector, noting that dedication and discipline often surpass natural brilliance. “A few players in the health sector have made progress, but leaving the responsibility solely to traditional players like government and health professionals has slowed national development,” he remarked.
“It is with profound delight that I welcome you to this summit, modeled after the African Business Coalition for Health,” said Kumtap, adding: “our goal is to create a platform where business and health sectors converge to address the critical health challenges facing Plateau State.”
He shared poignant anecdotes illustrating the life-and-death consequences of inadequate healthcare infrastructure in the state. One involved a retired military officer who died due to the unavailability of a catheterization lab in Plateau.
The NMA chairman called for collective action, stressing that waiting for government alone is no longer a viable strategy. “We are not absolving the government of its duties, but history shows that private individuals and businesses often took the lead in infrastructure development long before government intervention.”
He cited the example of Narayana Health in India, founded by Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, which revolutionized access to affordable surgeries through process innovation. “Just like Henry Ford made the car accessible to the masses, Dr. Shetty democratized life-saving surgeries. We can do the same here if we combine our business acumen with a sense of social responsibility.”
In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion, former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia, Bagudu Hirse, urged increased philanthropic and private-sector support for healthcare initiatives. He emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between the business community and healthcare stakeholders.
Chancellor of Mi’va University, Sim Shagaya, represented by Vice Chancellor Mr. Tewo Alurogu, highlighted the role of partnerships and policy in driving sustainable health reforms. “Once partnerships are established, we must also focus on creating effective policies that support these initiatives,” he said.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of a health sector needs assessment for Plateau State. Awards were also given to Governor Mutfwang, Senator Lalong, and others who have contributed significantly to the development of healthcare in the state.
It would be recalled that the event brought together government officials, healthcare professionals, business leaders, and members of the media, with a unanimous call for unified action to confront the health challenges facing Plateau and improve the wellbeing of its people.
brought together key stakeholders from the government, business, and medical sectors to share ideas, inspire action, and chart a new path for healthcare delivery in the state.
