…donates cash, food items and medical consumables to inmates
To commemorate the World Leprosy Day in Akwa Ibom State, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki on Sunday, worshipped with inmates of QIC Leprosy Hospital, Ekpene Obom, in Etinan Local Government Area.
The special commemorative service with the theme: “A Unified Call for Dignity and Healing,” held at the premises of the hospital and had Lady Obareki represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Essiet.
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, said the day was set aside not only to raise awareness about leprosy but to also celebrate the resilience and dignity of those affected by the disease.
“Leprosy is a disease that has plagued many for centuries and it often brings with it not just physical challenges, but social stigma and isolation. We are here today, to stand together and break these barriers and extend our hands in support and kindness to our fellow citizens who are coping with the effects of this illness,” she said.
Describing the global theme “Unite, Act, Eliminate,” as a call to action targeted at raising awareness of leprosy, Lady Obareki urged individuals and organizations to “work towards a future where leprosy is no longer a stigma but a manageable condition, where those affected are embraced by their communities.”
” I am therefore honoured to present gifts to people affected by leprosy within our community. These gifts are more than material items. They are symbols of our commitment to inclusivity and our promise that no one will be left behind. Each item represents our shared humanity and the acknowledgment that everyone deserves love, respect and dignity.” she concluded.
Earlier, the Medical Superintendent of Qua Iboe Church Leprosy Hospital, Ekpene Obom, Dr. Udeme Akpan noted that the purpose of the commemoration is to create awareness, debunk misconceptions that contribute to social discrimination and tackle the societal stigmas linked to leprosy.
Dr. Akpan stated that regardless of social status, cultural beliefs, religious inclination and societal class, the fight against leprosy and stigmatization should be prioritised as many are reintegrated into the society after training and completion of different trades.
He appreciated Governor Umo Eno, for his tireless effort to emancipate people from the shackles of leprosy, solicited more support for people affected by leprosy from the government, donor agencies and public-spirited individuals.
The State Programme Manager of Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control in the Ministry of Health, Dr Bassey Akpan assured that the government of Akwa Ibom State in synergy with other health organisations are working assiduously to ensure that the scourge against Neglected Tropical Diseases, NTDs, is eliminated.
Speaking on behalf of the inmates, the President of the Joint Association of Persons Living with Disability, Obongemem Timothy Itam who appreciated the Akwa Ibom State government for their continuous support and provision to the facility, appealed for transformer, vehicles, more doctors and monthly stipends to ease their living conditions while they recuperate at the leprosy health centre.
As a way of celebrating the Day with them, the First Lady Designate donated bags of rice, beans, garri, toiletries, medical supplies and cash to the inmates.
Present at the 2025 World Leprosy Day were the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs Mrs Eno Ime Akpan, Wife of the former Commissioner for Health, Dr Rosemary Umoh and Wife of the Chairman, Etinan Local Government Council, Mrs Emily Uko.
Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS.
January 26, 2025.