Dr. Paul Ogwuche (wearing a tie) poses with partners at the 2026 World Health Day event.
The Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Benue State, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a resilient, science-driven health system that leaves no one behind, as he commemorated World Health Day 2026.
Addressing the press on Thursday at the ministry’s conference hall in Makurdi, Dr. Ogwuche emphasized the importance of scientific innovation, research, and One Health approaches in addressing complex health challenges, citing the theme, “Together for Health. Stand with Science.” He highlighted Benue State’s unique vulnerabilities linked to agriculture, environment, and seasonal disease patterns, and noted the progress made in responding to the Lassa fever outbreak through collaboration with partners like World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) among others.
The Commissioner outlined the state’s achievements, including outbreak response and surveillance, immunization and child health initiatives, primary healthcare strengthening, and partnerships for science and innovation. He acknowledged challenges such as recurring outbreaks, limited access to advanced diagnostics, and the need for sustained investment in research and health workforce capacity.
Dr. Ogwuche called on the people of Benue State to stand with science, trust evidence-based health information, and seek care early at approved facilities. He also urged development partners, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations to join the state in mobilizing communities to embrace science for better health outcomes.
The Commissioner concluded by reaffirming the Benue State Government’s commitment to delivering quality, accessible, and equitable healthcare, emphasizing that “Together for Health” is the way forward to build a stronger, healthier Benue State.
During a technical session chaired by the Benue State Coordinator of One Health, Dr. Jerry Agber as part of the 2026 World Health Day activities, stakeholders such as WHO, BENGONET, and Professor Audu Onyemocho, the State Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) focal person, underscored the significance of embracing science and relying on evidence to tackle health issues. The discussion also emphasized adapting interventions to the state’s context and stressed the importance of a clean environment for promoting healthy living.
