Dr Temilope Ilori, NACA’s Director-General, made the disclosure on Thursday during an inspection of the facility in Calabar, donated under the Global Fund COVID-19 RM grant facilitated by the Federal Government.

She explained that the Global Fund C19 RM grant, managed by NACA, would strengthen Nigeria’s health systems after COVID-19 through provision of essential medical infrastructure and equipment.

“UCTH is a major beneficiary, receiving a 10,000-litre oxygen plant, more than 400 cylinders, humidifiers, concentrators, and pulse oximeters to support emergency and critical care services,” she said.

Ilori said the agency was satisfied that the equipment was being effectively used for public health services, and fulfilling the intended purpose of the intervention.

She added that the grant also supported fully functional PSA oxygen plants in Ogoja, currently delivering services to surrounding communities, with another in Ikom yet to be inaugurated.

While stressing the need for deliberate efforts to sustain the facilities, Ilori said the Global Fund secured five-year warranty and maintenance contracts, including spare parts support for the newly installed oxygen plants.

“Cross River has received one of the most comprehensive oxygen system upgrades in the South-South, valued at about 800,000 dollars.

“The strengthened infrastructure at UCTH and expanded oxygen capacity in Ogoja and Ikom ensures safer, more reliable oxygen therapy services,” she noted.

She emphasised that collaboration among the Federal Ministry of Health, NACA, and the Cross River Government was critical for optimal use of the investments.

Ilori, however, added that sustained success would require strong state ownership, skilled manpower, and continuous operational and maintenance support.