By Grace Damulak
Nigerians have been urged to trust scientific evidence, support vaccination programmes, ask informed questions, and promote verified health information.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, made the call in Jos during a press briefing to commemorate the 2026 World Health Day, themed “Together for Health: Stand with Science.”
Dr. Ba’amlong described science as a vital tool for saving lives, preventing diseases, and strengthening healthcare systems.
He said scientific progress had continued to improve public health through longer life expectancy, better disease prevention, and increased access to life-saving treatments.
The Commissioner noted that Nigeria had recorded significant gains through science-based interventions, including coordinated immunisation campaigns, strengthened disease surveillance systems, and improved outbreak response strategies.
He said in Plateau State, government has achieved significant progress by expanding primary healthcare services, providing free maternal and child health interventions, and deploying digital health reporting systems across all wards.
Dr. Ba’amlong explained that the measures had enhanced early detection of diseases, improved data accuracy, and strengthened emergency response across the state.
He added that the adoption of a One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health, had further improved the state’s capacity to detect and respond promptly to public health threats.
While acknowledging these achievements, the Commissioner identified emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, climate-related health risks, and misinformation as major challenges to public health progress.
He stressed that addressing the challenges required collective responsibility, stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and sustained commitment to evidence-based decision-making.
Dr. Ba’amlong reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery through investments in research, digital systems, and workforce development.
He also assured of continued efforts to ensure equitable access to vaccines and quality healthcare services.
The Commissioner called on residents to support science-based health initiatives to build a healthier and more resilient society.
Edited by Karen Keyen
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