Residents of Ogada community in the Obubra Local Government Area expressed joy and optimism as their notable son, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo KSM, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, rehabilitated the dilapidated Ogada 1 primary health care facility and distributed farm machinery to the four traditional communities of Obubra Urban Ward.
During the commissioning of the primary health centre and the distribution of farm equipment, Ebokpo stated that the rehabilitation aligns with the “people first” mantra of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu. He emphasized that this initiative stems from a genuine concern for the community, especially for pregnant and nursing mothers who often travel long distances to access medical care, particularly in emergencies and during routine immunizations , amid rising transportation costs.
Additionally, Ebokpo highlighted that the provision of solar power to provide 24hours electricity was borne out of the need to provide consistent power supply to the newly purchased refrigerator for storing leftover vaccines, which has been a significant challenge for the facility. He expressed hope for future enhancements, including the provision of hospital beds and essential equipment for minor surgeries.
Additionally, farm machinery, specifically power tillers, were distributed to four traditional villages within the Obubra Urban Council Ward (Imabana, Owakade,Obubra Villages and Ogada) to assist with land preparation during the farming season. The farm machines were received by the respective clan heads of the four communities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Obubra Local Government Area, Hon. Kingsley Ibon Arikpo, expressed enthusiasm for Ebokpo’s generosity and noted that improving the health sector in Obubra is one of his top priorities. He mentioned ongoing construction to revitalize the Apiapum health facility, pledging to use the same contractors to replace the roof of the Ogada 1 health facility within two weeks, as well as to build staff quarters for better working conditions for health personnel in the area. He equally thanked the Governor for appointing Hon . Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo KSM as a Commissioner representing the good people of Obubra LGA .
Dr. Vivein Mesember Otu, Director General of the Primary Health Agency, represented by Permanent Secretary Barr. Mrs. Lucy Bassey, expressed gratitude to Hon. Johnson for revamping the facility and promised her agency’s support to enhance staff strength for improved healthcare services.
Councillor Hon. Petrus Okpandem praised the commissioner for his initiatives over the past few years, committing to safeguard the improvements against vandalism and ensure their optimal use in the community.
Mr. Sylvernus Ekong Araghe, the Obubra Coordinator of Primary Health Care, commended Ebokpo for prioritizing health, noting that the Ogada 1 health centre was nearly non-functional before the rehabilitation . He stated that Ogada 1 PHC is the first to have 24 hours electricity for its operations in Obubra LGA . He also acknowledged the efforts of the Obubra Local Government Chairman in advancing the health sector.
In gratitude, Chief Gabriel Ibingha, the clan head of Ogada, thanked Ebokpo for his contributions and prayed for his continued success in his appointed role.
The event attracted key stakeholders, including the Secretary of Obubra Council Dr Atan Egor, the Chapter Chairman of All Progressive Party Deacon Denis Egor, Acting Paramount Ruler of Obubra HRH Ovarr Louis Enyam, his council of chiefs, past and present political appointees , past and present ward Councillors and a host of numerous All Progressives Congress party members.
© Ovat Lawrence
