FIC Report (Benue State) – The Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Yanmar Ortese, has commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering commitment to the fight against Tuberculosis (TB) in Benue State. He highlighted the state’s progress in TB control, attributing it to the provision of adequate manpower, essential resources, and strong collaboration with the Federal Government.
Speaking at a press briefing held today 24th March 2025 at the ministry’s conference hall to mark World Tuberculosis Day 2025, themed “WE FIT DO AM”, Dr. Ortese revealed that 10,618 cases of TB were diagnosed in Benue State in 2024 alone. He noted that Nigeria remains among the top ten countries globally with a high TB burden.
Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Health and Human Services has made significant strides, including the training of 84 public health facilities—an average of three per Local Government Area—to ensure universal access to TB services. He also appreciated health partners for their role in training private health facilities, patent medicine vendors, and other unconventional health providers to aid TB screening.
Dr. Ortese further disclosed that the state is leveraging modern technology to enhance TB case detection. Key advancements include:
Deployment of five portable digital X-ray machines to screen communities, with six more expected soon.
Receipt of eight Truenat machines from the National TB Program to improve diagnosis.
Expressing gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria, particularly the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ortese acknowledged the establishment of a National Infectious Disease Center in Vandeikya Local Government Area. He emphasized that the center will play a crucial role in disease diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and outbreak response, ultimately improving public health across the state.
He therefore called on all residents of Benue State to renew their commitment to ending TB by embracing awareness campaigns, early detection, treatment, and supporting those affected by the disease.
In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Beatrice Tsavmbu, appreciated RedAid, APIN, and KNCV for their unwavering support. She also commended the media for their dedication to disseminating crucial health information. She reminded the public that TB screening and treatment are free in government-owned hospitals and urged people to get tested. Additionally, she appealed to the public to show care and compassion to TB patients rather than stigmatizing them.
Signed
Veronica Azemba
For Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
