Nasarawa Sets National Pace as Federal Ministry of Health Honours State for Outstanding TB Control Commitment

Nasarawa State has recorded another landmark achievement in the health sector as it emerged a national pacesetter in the fight against Tuberculosis (TB), Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer, earning a prestigious award from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The honour, presented on Friday during the Joint Annual Review Meeting of the National Tuberculosis Programme, recognized Nasarawa State’s exceptional performance in Domestic Resource Mobilization, as captured on the official award plaque issued by the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP).While five states across the federation were acknowledged for their Domestic Resource Mobilization efforts, Nasarawa State distinguished itself by releasing 100 percent of its TB programme budget, a feat unmatched by any other state, with peers recording only partial releases.The award comes at a critical time for public health financing. Earlier this year, global health interventions, including TB control programmes, were severely affected following the suspension of certain international funding grants to countries after an executive action by the United States government under President Donald Trump.In response to the funding shock, the Abdullahi A. Sule-led administration demonstrated resilience and foresight by swiftly mobilising domestic resources to sustain TB interventions across the state. These efforts included the purchase of essential data tools, procurement of sputum kits for TB sample collection, and capacity-building training for laboratory and healthcare workers on quality assurance and service delivery.Commending the development, the Director of Public Health in Nasarawa State, Dr. Peter Attah, described the recognition as unprecedented, noting that it reflects strong political will, sound leadership, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health despite fiscal uncertainties.The award also underscores the strategic leadership of the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gaza Gwamna, whose stewardship continues to translate policy direction into measurable health sector outcomes.This national recognition further cements Nasarawa State’s growing reputation as a model for healthcare governance, innovation, and sustainability, reinforcing its resolve to protect vulnerable populations and advance quality healthcare delivery for all citizens.