The Cross River State Government has received widespread praise for its comprehensive reforms in the health sector over the past two years under the administration of Governor Bassey Otu. The commendation was a key highlight of a colloquium organized by the State Ministry of Health to evaluate the governor’s achievements.
The event, themed “Cross River and the People First Mantra: Evaluating the Impact of Senator Bassey Edet Otu’s Health Transformation Agenda,” was a platform for key stakeholders to laud the government’s commitment to public welfare.
Representing Governor Otu, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, affirmed that healthcare delivery is a core constitutional responsibility of the government, directly aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3).
“My administration doesn’t see healthcare as just a service, but as a crucial factor in our people’s overall well-being and economic growth,” the governor’s statement read. “Only a healthy citizen can create wealth and drive development.” He expressed confidence that the administration had surpassed citizens’ expectations in its delivery of healthcare projects.
State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, provided a detailed list of the administration’s accomplishments. He noted that the government has undertaken massive interventions in both urban and rural areas.
Key projects include: The renovation and full equipping of 82 Primary Health Centres across all local government areas.
The upgrade of dialysis centers at General Hospitals in Ogoja and Calabar.
The construction of a new General Hospital in Ikom.
The reconstruction of the previously nonfunctional College Hospital in Oban (Akamkpa LGA) and the Ukem Hospital in Odukpani LGA.
Full accreditation of all four Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery in the state.
Additionally, Dr. Ayuk highlighted the launch of the Sweet Prince Palliative Healthcare Programme, a pilot scheme providing free medical services to pregnant women, children under five, and citizens aged 70 and above.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Health, Hon. Hilary Bisong, echoed the praise, emphasizing that health is the “greatest wealth of a people.” He noted the significant progress made since 2023, particularly in revitalizing primary healthcare and ensuring access for rural residents.
“As Chairman of the House Committee on Health, I have championed and supported bills that promote healthcare development in our state,” said Bisong. “These efforts are the sparks for lasting flames in Cross River’s healthcare sector.”
The colloquium, held at the State Library Complex, also featured a paper presentation by Dr. Tah Daniel Takon concluded with awards for outstanding staff of the Ministry of Health, partner organizations, and parastatals in recognition of their contributions to the sector.
