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Anthony Ufoh

Healthcare has been described by the Governor of Rivers State, Bassey Otu, as very important for national well-being and necessary for economic growth. He stated that healthy citizens are those who would bring development.  

The speaker made this statement while being represented by Elvert Ayambem, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, on his stewardship in the governance of the state over the past two years.

The governor pointed out as part of his achievements in office the renovation and equipping of 82 Primary Health Centres across Cross River, the upgrade of dialysis centres in Calabar and Ogoja, and the construction of a new General Hospital in Ikom.

Other are the full accreditation of four Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery, the equipping of the Fistula Centre in Calabar and reconstruction works at the moribund College Hospital in Akamkpa, Ukem Hospital in Odukpani, and facilities in Akpabuyo.

The governor said the launch of the Sweet Prince Palliative Healthcare Programme has offered free services to pregnant women, children under five, and senior citizens, alongside an operational State Health Insurance Scheme.

In partnership with UNICEF, he said that medical oxygen plants are being established in Calabar and Ogoja.

Remarking at the event, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, Commissioner for Health, commended Governor Otu for prioritising the health of the citizenry in a way that truly reflects his People First mantra.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the House Committee on Health, Hilary Bisong, stressed that health remains the greatest wealth of a people, and must be prioritised.

He agreed that Otu’s administration has made significant strides in the health sector between 2023 and 2025, particularly in revitalising primary healthcare centres and ensuring rural dwellers have access to essential services.