…APPEAL FOR IBOM MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

By Udeme Hosea

The Coalition of All Health Sector Leaders (CAHSEL), Akwa Ibom State has commended Governor Umo Eno for his efforts in repositioning the health sector for growth and development.

Speaking at a press briefing held in Uyo earlier today, Chairman of the coalition, Dr. Aniekan Imo Peter, expressed gratitude to the governor for several health intervention initiatives, including the construction of model healthcare centers across the state, establishment of Akwa Ibom Ambulance services, renovation of General Hospitals, declaration of a state of emergency in the health sector amongst other reforms.

Dr. Peter also appreciated the governor for approving the ongoing recruitment of over 2000 health workers, saying the move will address the shortage of staff and improve service delivery.

 “The poor staff strength was a major challenge in the health sector, making the few available hands work overtime,” he noted.

The coalition also declared their support for Governor Eno’s Arise Agenda beyond 2027, describing his policies in the health sector as transformational.

 “We promise to support the Arise Agenda beyond 2027 to actualize the governor’s lofty ideas”.

“We are committed to partnering with the Ministry of the Health to ensure that our healthcare workers practice with empathy and deliver world-class services.” Dr. Peter said.

Dr. Peter also thanked the governor for the rural posting allowance, assured him of effective service delivery and appealed to the state government to construct rural health housing estates with good schools and modern facilities, saying this will motivate medical personnel to live and work in rural communities.

The Coalition also seek the Akwa Ibom State government to establish the Ibom Medical University with campuses in Ibom Specialty Hospital and Ikot Ekpene General Hospital. Saying  that, establishing the Medical University will provide access to quality medical education for Akwa Ibom State indigenes who are struggling to gain admission into higher institution.

“Medical education is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for the development of any state, especially Akwa Ibom State, which is blessed with potentials,” Dr. Peter added.

Present at the briefing were Pharm. Abasiama Uwatt, Apostle Ekerete Bassey Bassey,  Dr. Ithiel Essie and the media community led by the state chairman of NUJ , Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John.