Cross River Prepares to Host 66th National Council on Health Meeting
By Ebi COLLINS
Cross River State is set to make history as it prepares to host the 66th National Council on Health (NCH) meeting, the country’s highest decision-making body on healthcare. This marks the first time the state has won the hosting rights, a privilege secured during the 65th NCH meeting held in Maiduguri, Borno State, in 2024.
At the inaugural planning committee meeting held at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Calabar, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, described the development as a significant milestone for Cross River. He credited the achievement to the visionary leadership of Governor Bassey Otu and divine favor. Emphasizing the need for meticulous planning and collaboration, he called on all stakeholders to contribute towards delivering a successful event.
Dr. Ayuk underscored the strategic importance of the National Council on Health, which is chaired by the Minister of Health and brings together state commissioners, senior health ministry officials, and international development partners.
“The NCH serves as a platform for states to submit policy proposals for review, and those approved can be implemented nationwide. This is an opportunity for Cross River to showcase its healthcare innovations and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s health sector reforms,” he stated.
The meeting saw participation from key development agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), as well as representatives from military and paramilitary forces. Their presence, the Commissioner noted, highlights the critical role of inter-agency collaboration in public health security and emergency preparedness.
Stakeholders at the meeting pledged their full commitment to ensuring the successful hosting of the prestigious gathering, which is scheduled to take place in Calabar in October 2025. The event is expected to attract over 1,500 participants, including top government officials, health policymakers, and industry experts from across the country.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, praised Dr. Ayuk for his leadership in securing the hosting rights. He urged committee members to take their roles seriously and uphold the state’s reputation for excellence in hospitality and event organization.
“We have a responsibility to deliver a world-class event, and I have no doubt that Cross River will exceed expectations. Our state is known for its warmth and hospitality, and we will leverage these strengths to make this a memorable gathering,” he assured.
Also speaking, retired Permanent Secretary, Dr. Joseph Bassey, commended the Commissioner’s commitment to the state’s healthcare advancement and proposed the creation of an online communication channel to facilitate seamless coordination between the Secretariat and stakeholders.
As part of the preparatory measures, the committee unanimously agreed that subcommittees should commence work before April 3. A follow-up meeting has been scheduled in two weeks to assess progress and fine-tune strategies.
Subcommittees were further tasked with reviewing their terms of reference and operational frameworks to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in planning.
With robust government support, inter-agency partnerships, and proactive stakeholder engagement, Cross River State is poised to host a groundbreaking 66th National Council on Health meeting—one that will leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
