By Edem Ekpo, Calabar
The Cross River State Government has commenced the comprehensive renovation and remodeling of the Oban Cottage Hospital in Akamkpa Local Government Area, reaffirming its commitment to accessible and quality healthcare delivery for rural communities.
Performing the groundbreaking ceremony on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu, Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey described the project as a milestone in the state’s drive to reposition its health sector. He noted that the initiative reflects the governor’s passion for the welfare of citizens, stressing that healthcare is a constitutional obligation and a vital pillar of development.
“Without people being in good health, you cannot achieve any meaningful development,” Bassey said. “His Excellency is committed to ensuring that our people benefit from quality healthcare delivery, which is why he approved the remodeling and equipping of this hospital.”
He further highlighted that the groundbreaking coincides with the second anniversary of Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk as Commissioner for Health, describing the milestone as evidence of steady progress in the health sector under his watch. He congratulated Dr. Ayuk and expressed optimism that his leadership would continue to strengthen healthcare delivery in the state.
Bassey urged the contractor handling the project to deliver on schedule and maintain quality standards, while appealing for the use of local labor to empower residents of the host community. He also called on the people of Oban to protect the facility and support government’s vision of sustainable healthcare access.
In his remarks, the Secretary of Oban Clan, Mr. Henry Okpan, expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for prioritizing the community’s health needs. He recounted the difficulties residents have faced over the years due to the poor state of the facility and deplorable road network linking the area to Calabar.
“We have lost many lives trying to rush patients to Calabar because of the moribund state of this hospital and the terrible condition of our roads,” Okpan lamented. “This renovation gives us hope again, but we appeal that the issue of staffing and infrastructure, especially our roads, should also be addressed to complement the governor’s good intentions.”
Okpan also described Commissioner Ayuk as “a son of the soil by language and every other ramification,” expressing confidence that his connection to the community would further strengthen their chances of improved health services. He assured government of the community’s cooperation with the contractor while pledging vigilance to ensure accountability and quality delivery.
Dignitaries at the event included the Special Adviser to the Governor on Nursing Education, Mrs. Uduak Spencer Efem; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Jonah Offor; Director of Administration, Mr. Agba William; and several community leaders.