By Kelvin Obambon
The Cross River State government through the ‘Sweet Prince Palliative Healthcare Programme’ is providing free healthcare services for pregnant women, children under five, and citizens aged 70 and above, as part of its ongoing efforts to improve the health sector.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu made this known during the State Health Sector Colloquium held at the Library Complex in Calabar Tuesday. The governor described healthcare as one of the core pillars of his administration’s governance agenda, emphasizing its crucial role in improving the welfare and economic wellbeing of the people.
“Our administration does not regard healthcare merely as a welfare service, but as a critical determinant of the overall well-being of the people,” Governor Otu said. He noted the health sector’s dynamic challenges, such as outbreaks and epidemics, requiring robust management systems, adequate facilities, and trained personnel to respond effectively.
Otu, who was represented at the event by the Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, further revealed that 82 Primary Health Centers across various local government areas are currently being renovated and fully equipped to extend quality healthcare services. He also detailed progress in secondary healthcare with ongoing upgrades to Dialysis Centers in Calabar and Ogoja General Hospitals, construction of a new General Hospital in Ikom, and the refurbishment of other health facilities.
He highlighted other significant strides in the health sector to include the full accreditation and equipping of the state’s Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery, the launch of the Sweet Prince Palliative Healthcare Programme, and the operationalization of the State Health Insurance Scheme. “In partnership with UNICEF, a Medical Oxygen Plant is also under construction at both Calabar and Ogoja General Hospitals,” he disclosed.
Governor Otu said that the theme of the colloquium, “Transforming Health, Transforming Lives,” aligns with the government’s commitment to elevating the standard of living through improved healthcare delivery. He assured that suggestions from the event would be carefully considered and integrated into future health sector policies.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the assessment of the health sector and pledged continued purposeful governance to ensure a healthier Cross River population.
The event was well attended by key stakeholders in the health sector.
