C’River Strengthens HIV/AIDS Response with Permanent SACA Office After 30 Years
By Ebi COLLINS
Cross River State has recorded a major milestone in the fight against HIV/AIDS with the commissioning of a modernized office complex for the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SACA) in Calabar, the first government-owned permanent home for the agency in its over 30-year history.
Speaking at the commissioning on behalf of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, described the development as a turning point in the State’s decades-long response to the epidemic.
“For the first time since the early days of HIV/AIDS interventions in Cross River, we now have a government-owned office dedicated to this important work,” he declared. “This commissioning is not just about bricks and mortar; it is a foundation, proof that services once thought forgotten are back and stronger than ever.”
Dr. Ayuk emphasized that the facility reflects Governor Otu’s broader commitment to rebuilding the health sector, restoring confidence among development partners, and ensuring that HIV/AIDS programmes in the State deliver lasting impact. According to him, a permanent office will not only strengthen service delivery but also position Cross River to attract fresh investments and technical support that will ultimately improve the well-being of citizens.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, hailed the Governor’s foresight in approving the office upgrade. He noted that the improved work environment would boost staff morale while enhancing productivity and user confidence. “A few years ago, this place was an eyesore,” he recalled. “Today, it is attractive enough for SACA, its partners, and the people seeking services here. Environment matters; it motivates, enhances performance, and inspires results.”
In his remarks, SACA Director General, Dr. Charles Iwara, expressed delight at the transformation. “When I assumed office, we had no space to sit or even conduct basic operations. Today, we have an office we can proudly call our own. Already, partners are reaching out, eager to work with us. When the people are happy, people are healthy,” he said.
Dr. Iwara pledged, on behalf of the staff, to honor the investment by redoubling efforts in awareness creation, sensitization, and community-based campaigns to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in the State.
The event, which drew senior health officials including the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Jonah Offor, formed part of activities marking the second anniversary of Dr. Ayuk’s tenure as Commissioner for Health.
