The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and other medical professionals to revitalise health institutions and ensure the effective delivery of healthcare services.

Mutfwang made this commitment during a courtesy visit by the NMA, led by its newly elected Chairman, Dr Yilji Kumtap, at the Old Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

Expressing gratitude to the medical professionals for their selfless dedication despite the challenging working conditions, he acknowledged the reality of “Japa syndrome,” the migration of skilled professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.

In a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, he praised those who have chosen to remain in Nigeria by committing themselves to addressing the pressing healthcare challenges on the Plateau.

“I congratulate the NMA Plateau State for the critical role you have played over the years in advancing healthcare on the Plateau. I regard many of you as missionaries of a sort. It is not due to a lack of opportunities outside the state or country that you have stayed, but because you recognize that no one will fix this sector unless those of you who are here take the lead,” Mutfwang said.

He stressed his administration’s resolve to maintain constructive engagement with the NMA and its affiliates to ensure the continued advancement of the healthcare sector in Plateau State.

In his remarks, Dr. Yilji Kumtap, the Chairman of the NMA Plateau State Chapter, commended the Governor for his proactive stance in addressing healthcare issues, including the appointment of professionals to key positions, the domestication of Medical Residency Training, and the improvement of healthcare workers’ welfare.

Kumtap, however, highlighted several challenges facing the sector, including a shortage of personnel, inadequate housing, and a poorly structured pension scheme—factors that have contributed to the increasing brain drain and the rise of quackery in the profession.

He expressed the NMA’s willingness to collaborate with the state government in finding lasting solutions to these problems.