Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has taken decisive action to address the condition of cottage hospitals in the state, emphasizing the importance of primary healthcare.
During a recent visit to Cottage Hospital in Akai Ubium, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Governor Eno expressed disappointment at the deplorable state of the facility and promptly ordered intervention measures for six cottage hospitals across the state.
Governor Eno’s decision is to have two hospitals rehabilitated in each senatorial district without delay.
Governor Eno, driven by commitment to the ARISE Agenda, stressed that primary healthcare holds a significant place within his administration’s focus.
He underlined the need for a comprehensive audit of all cottage hospitals and primary healthcare centers in the state to determine the extent of intervention required for each facility.
Governor Eno acknowledged the impressive progress made in secondary healthcare, exemplified by the state-of-the-art facilities in general hospitals across Akwa Ibom.
He emphasized the need for high-quality primary healthcare facilities to serve as referral centers, thereby reducing the burden on secondary healthcare facilities.
As part of his rural development plan, the Governor has pledged to enhance the primary healthcare centers in all wards, ensuring they are adequately staffed with resident doctors.
This latest directive for intervention in cottage hospitals follows a similar initiative in the education sector.
Governor Eno recently issued orders for the revamping of CKS Primary School, including the construction of staff quarters, with the aim of setting a model for interventions across other schools in the state.
This approach intends to foster a conducive learning environment by having teachers reside within the school premises, Governor Eno stated during the visit to CKS Primary School.
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At CKS, Governor Eno had emphasized the importance of investing in children’s education, noting that catching them at a young age is crucial.
He also expressed belief in the potential of CKS Primary School, being situated near the Government House, to serve as a model for other schools in the state.
He formed a project committee led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) to oversee the remodeling process are translated into practical designs and implementation.
Also, during the visit, Governor Eno commended the Headmistress of CKS Primary School, Mrs. Eme Joseph Bassey, for her dedication and recommended her for promotion.
Before the hospital inspection, Governor Eno attended a commemorative service at the Salvation Army, in Akai Ubium, where he expressed his condolences to the organization for the loss of their members.
He console the bereaved families and assured them of the government’s support during this challenging time.
Drawing from experiences as a Pastor, the Governor empathized with their grief, referring to the famous hymn “It Is Well With My Soul” by Horatio Spafford.
Similarly, as a testament to his commitment to improving the education sector, Governor Eno proposed a partnership with the Salvation Army to upgrade facilities at the School.
The school has produced several prominent individuals from Akwa Ibom including Senator Effiong Bob, Chief Nduese Essien, and the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Ekerette Udoh, among others.
