Plateau and Niger States Record 19,908 Tuberculosis Cases in 2025
The Plateau State government has disclosed that no fewer than 5,000 cases of tuberculosis (TB) were recorded across the state in 2025, highlighting a persistent public health burden despite intensified control measures. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, revealed this in Jos while briefing journalists ahead of activities to mark the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day.
Health Officials Urge Public Action
Ba’amlong described the figure as a clear indication of the continued challenge posed by TB in Plateau State, even as efforts to curb its spread remain ongoing. He noted that the state government, working closely with development partners, has ramped up case detection, treatment services, and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing transmission and mortality rates.
The commissioner urged residents to utilise the free TB testing and treatment services available at designated health facilities across the state, emphasising that early detection is critical to effective management and cure of the disease. Ba’amlong also appealed to the public to shun stigmatisation of patients, stressing that tuberculosis is fully curable with proper adherence to treatment.
He called on citizens to continue to support the Governor Caleb Mutfwang-led administration as it works to revamp the health sector in the state.
Niger State Reports Higher Infection Numbers
In a related development, the Niger State government has confirmed 14,908 TB infections between 2024 and 2025. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, made the disclosure at a press conference on the commemoration of 2026 World Tuberculosis Day, themed “Yes! We Can End TB, But We Must All Get Involved and Lead” in Minna.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Abdullahi Usman Imam, the commissioner explained that out of the total number, 7,969 were male, while 6,939 were female. He observed that a reduction in international donor funding poses a major threat, with projections suggesting potential for two million additional deaths from 2025 to 2030.
The combined total of 19,908 cases from both states underscores the ongoing struggle against tuberculosis in Nigeria, with health officials calling for increased public awareness, early testing, and sustained funding to combat the disease effectively.
