In a bold move to transform grassroots healthcare delivery, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially inaugurated traditional rulers as Health Ambassadors to champion primary healthcare initiatives across the state.
The landmark investiture ceremony held at MNS Hotel in Pankshin Local Government Area drew a cross-section of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, top health officials, and local government chairmen. The event amplifies the government’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage through community ownership and participation.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, on July 11, 2025. Addressing the royal fathers, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in galvanizing public support for health programs and ensuring accountability.
“As respected custodians of our communities and culture, your influence is invaluable in mobilizing grassroots participation and fostering a sense of ownership that is key to the success of our healthcare interventions,” he said.
The Governor directed all 17 Local Government Chairmen to prioritize the construction of new Primary Healthcare Centres in each district as part of their 2026 budget proposals, marking a coordinated push for infrastructure expansion in the health sector.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicolas Ba’amlong, described the initiative as “a strategic, culturally rooted intervention” that places traditional rulers at the heart of a responsive and people-centered health system.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Primary Healthcare Development Board, Dr. Raymond Juryil, commended the Governor’s leadership for approving the recruitment of 1,450 healthcare workers and the timely release of funds for ongoing measles vaccination campaigns.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Long Goemai of Shendam, His Royal Highness, Miskoom Martins Sheldas III, lauded the initiative and assured the Governor of their full support. He pledged that the royal father across the state would mobilize their chiefs and subjects to ensure the success of the healthcare transformation agenda.
As a demonstration of his commitment, Governor Mutfwang proceeded to inspect the ongoing renovation of the Primary Healthcare Centre in Pushit, Mangu LGA. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and declared his intention to make the facility a model for others across the state.
“By God’s grace, we will strengthen staffing, upgrade medical equipment, and enhance workers’ allowances to reflect improved service expectations,” he affirmed.
The Governor called on community members to take ownership of the health facility and remain vigilant, stressing that citizen engagement is key to sustaining quality service delivery.
“If you see something, say something. This is your facility, own it, protect it,” he urged.
In further recognition of local leadership, Governor Mutfwang announced that the District Head of Pushit will soon be formally installed as a Health Ambassador to provide local oversight and ensure the sustainability of healthcare reforms.
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