Plateau State recorded 5,397 tuberculosis cases in 2025, far short of the estimated 11,549 total, the state’s Health Commissioner warned on Monday.
Dr Nicholas Baamlong briefed journalists in Jos ahead of World Tuberculosis Day, stressing that the large gap leaves thousands of people undiagnosed and untreated.
Each untreated case can spread the disease to 10 to 15 others every year through the air, he explained, which fuels a dangerous cycle especially in hard-to-reach rural communities.
“Many residents still lack easy access to healthcare,” Baamlong said.
“That means infections go unnoticed, people suffer quietly, and the disease keeps spreading.”
Despite the challenge, the state pushes forward.
Free diagnosis and treatment now reach 640 of Plateau’s 1,470 health facilities.
The commissioner highlighted partnerships with organisations that help extend services further.
He urged anyone with a persistent cough — one of the main signs of TB — to visit a nearby facility for screening without delay.
Early detection saves lives and stops transmission, he added.
The briefing forms part of wider efforts across Nigeria to tackle Tuberculosis.
Health leaders mark World Tuberculosis Day each year to draw attention to the illness and rally support for stronger action.
Baamlong called on communities, families, and leaders to join the fight.
“We can end this if we commit, invest, and deliver,” he said, echoing the global theme for 2026.
With continued focus on awareness and access, Plateau aims to close the detection gap and protect more families from this preventable disease.
