The Plateau State Government has unveiled plans to strengthen support for people living with sickle cell disease through the creation of a state-wide registry and expanded health insurance coverage.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, during activities marking the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day in Jos.
According to the commissioner, the new measures are aimed at improving access to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care for thousands of residents affected by the condition.
“The Ministry is establishing a State Sickle Cell Registry to strengthen planning, surveillance and evidence-based decision-making,” Baamlong said.
He explained that the registry will help government authorities gather accurate data needed to improve healthcare planning and develop more effective interventions for sickle cell patients.
Baamlong noted that Nigeria remains one of the countries with the highest number of sickle cell cases globally, with thousands of children born with the condition every year.
To address the challenge, the state government also plans to work with the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLASCHEMA) to widen insurance coverage for essential sickle cell services, including pain management and treatment support.
The commissioner added that the government intends to introduce newborn screening, expand genotype testing, strengthen counselling services, improve access to medications, and enhance specialised care for patients across the state.
He also urged residents to know their genotype before marriage, embrace genetic counselling, and avoid stigmatizing individuals living with sickle cell disease.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the state government to improve healthcare outcomes and ensure that sickle cell patients receive the support they need to live healthier lives.
Source: Plateau State Ministry of Health / World Sickle Cell Day 2026 Press Briefing.
