By Edem Ekpo
Cross River State’s bold strides in transforming primary healthcare delivery have drawn praise from the World Bank, which described the state as a model of leadership-driven innovation and results under the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project.
During an inspection tour of healthcare facilities in Calabar, Mr. Onoriode Ezire, Task Team Leader of the IMPACT Project, commended Governor Bassey Otu for securing the state’s inclusion in the World Bank-supported initiative, despite its initial exclusion.
“Cross River was not originally selected for the IMPACT Project. However, Governor Otu’s unwavering focus on improving health outcomes led to its admission,” Ezire remarked. “The progress we see today—renovated clinics, deployed health workers, better service quality—is a testament to that leadership.”
The IMPACT Project targets maternal and child health improvements, expanded immunization, and enhanced malaria control through infrastructure upgrades, skilled workforce deployment, and essential medical provisioning. In Cross River, 82 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) are currently being elevated to Level Two standards, ensuring every ward has access to at least one skilled birth attendant.
Ezire noted that beyond infrastructure, the project has improved the operational environment of health workers. “Reliable water and electricity are basic necessities, yet they make a world of difference. These improvements have significantly boosted staff morale and patient trust,” he said.
He also praised the state’s performance-based monitoring strategy, which includes regular review meetings involving local government representatives. “It creates accountability and drives competition across LGAs—both essential for long-term progress,” Ezire emphasized.
Health Commissioner, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, was also recognized for his active oversight. “Dr. Ayuk’s hands-on approach—personally inspecting rural health facilities, even under challenging conditions—is exemplary,” Ezire stated.
Responding, Dr. Ayuk acknowledged the World Bank’s technical and financial support, while underscoring the state’s efforts to ensure sustainability. “We fought hard to join this project because our people deserve better. Today, we’re not just building structures; we’re building systems and local capacity to keep the gains alive,” he said.
Dr. Paul Odey, State Programme Manager for IMPACT, disclosed that 196 skilled health professionals have been deployed—one per political ward. He reported encouraging improvements in maternal and child health indicators and called for institutional reforms to consolidate the gains.
“Our progress must not be short-lived,” Dr. Odey said. “We need to lock in these achievements through policy, training, and local ownership.”
At the community level, officials are also seeing results. Mrs. Bassey Effiong, Director of the Local Government Health Authority in Calabar Municipality, confirmed that renovated centres are attracting more patients. “The difference is visible. People are returning to the facilities. We’re thankful for this renewed attention to primary care,” she said.
The World Bank team visited health centres in Calabar South and Calabar Municipality, and held sessions with the State IMPACT Project Coordinating Unit and Ministry of Health officials.
During a high-level meeting with the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the state reaffirmed its dedication to project continuity. “Governor Otu is committed to lifting healthcare standards. We are building not just for now, but for the future. A sustainability plan is already in motion,” he assured.
The Deputy Governor also applauded Dr. Odey and his team for driving implementation with energy and clarity of purpose.
With measurable improvements already unfolding, Cross River State is being positioned as a national example of how strong governance, strategic partnerships, and community-focused investment can transform the health sector.