Two Years On: Cross River Govt Lauded for Health Sector Reforms
By Missang Akpet
The Cross River State Government has been commended for wide-ranging reforms implemented in the state’s health sector over the past two years under the administration of Governor Bassey Otu.
The commendation came during a colloquium organized by the State Ministry of Health to mark Governor Otu’s two-year health sector strides in Cross River State.
Speaking at the event themed “Cross River and the People First Mantra: Evaluating the Impact of Senator Bassey Edet Otu’s Health Transformation Agenda”, Governor Otu, represented by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, noted that one of government’s primary constitutional responsibilities is the welfare of its people, with healthcare delivery at the core. He emphasized that this objective aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3).
“My administration does not regard healthcare merely as a welfare service but as a critical determinant of the overall well-being of our people, with direct correlation to economic growth. Only a healthy citizen can create wealth and drive other indices of development.
“The theme of this colloquium is therefore apt and aligns perfectly with my administration’s governing mantra, which prioritizes the living standards of our people. I am convinced beyond doubt that we have exceeded the expectations of our citizens in the delivery of healthcare projects and programmes,” the governor stated.
Hon. Elvert Ayambem - Speaker CRSHA (Governor's Rep)
In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, said the government has recorded massive interventions in both rural and urban areas, reflecting the seriousness with which the administration is tackling health sector challenges.
Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk - CRS Commissioner For Health
He disclosed that 82 Primary Health Centres across all local government areas are currently being renovated and fully equipped, alongside the upgrade of dialysis centres at the General Hospitals in Ogoja and Calabar.
Other major projects include the construction of a new General Hospital in Ikom, reconstruction of the moribund College Hospital in Oban (Akamkpa LGA), and Ukem Hospital in Odukpani LGA, as well as the accreditation of all four Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery in the state. The government has also introduced pilot schemes such as the Sweet Prince Palliative Healthcare Programme, which provides free medical services to pregnant women, children under five, and citizens aged 70 and above.
Dr. Ayuk commended Governor Otu for prioritizing the health of the citizenry in a way that truly reflects his People First mantra.
On his part, Hon. Hilary Bisong, Chairman of the House Committee on Health, stressed that health remains the greatest wealth of a people, and therefore must be prioritized. He highlighted significant strides made in the sector between 2023 and 2025, particularly in revitalizing primary healthcare centres and ensuring rural dwellers have access to essential services.
“As Chairman of the House Committee on Health, I have championed and supported bills that promote healthcare development in our state. These efforts represent sparks for lasting flames in Cross River’s healthcare sector,” Bisong said.
The colloquium, held at the State Library Complex, Calabar, featured a paper presentation by Dr. Tah Daniel Takon, goodwill messages, and award presentations to deserving staff of the Ministry of Health, parastatals, partners, and organizations in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the sector.
