The Acting Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare partnerships to enhance the well-being of residents across the state.
He made this statement when he received a delegation from the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Cross River State chapter, led by its chairman, Dr. Ezoke Epoke, at his temporary office in the Government House, Calabar.
Governor Odey commended members of the association for their dedication, expertise, and contributions to the state’s healthcare sector. He acknowledged the crucial role medical professionals play in improving public health and assured them of his administration’s unwavering support.
“As a government we appreciate the invaluable efforts of medical professionals in ensuring quality healthcare delivery in our state. This renewed partnership and synergy, will improve the health status of the state and her residents,” Odey stated.
He expressed concern over the increasing rate of quackery in the medical profession, which poses serious risks to the lives of Cross Riverians. The governor reassured the NMA delegation that the government is taking decisive steps to eliminate quackery and protect citizens from unqualified practitioners.
Addressing the issue of declining manpower in the health sector, Governor Odey revealed that the state government is making significant investments in health education and improving the welfare of medical personnel. He highlighted plans to establish a School of Medicine at the state-owned University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) as part of a long-term strategy to produce more qualified healthcare professionals.
“We are committed to addressing the shortage of medical professionals in the state. As part of our strategy, we are investing in health education and prioritizing the welfare of our healthcare workers. The establishment of a School of Medicine at UNICROSS will help train more doctors and medical personnel to serve our people effectively,” he noted.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Ezoke Epoke, commended the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration for prioritizing the health sector and the well-being of citizens. He praised the government’s efforts in upgrading health facilities, increasing immunization coverage, and raising the health sector allocation to over 10% of the total budget for 2025.
Dr. Epoke appealed to the state government to further improve the welfare of medical personnel by increasing the retirement age and enhancing salary packages.
He also stressed the importance of continuous collaboration between the government and the NMA to strengthen healthcare services and ensure that Cross Riverians receive quality medical care.
The event had in attendance the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Commissioner for Health, Dr Ayuk Egbe and other government officials as well as other exco members of NMA’s affiliate bodies.
Fred Abua, Esq.,
Press Secretary to the Acting Governor
19/03/2025
