Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reinforced his administration’s dedication to accessible rural healthcare with the official commissioning of a newly constructed Model Primary Health Centre in Mbiaso, Ikot Ekpene.
Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umo Essien, the Governor described the facility as a pivotal milestone in the state’s drive toward human capital development and improved healthcare.
The project aims to bridge the gap in medical services, ensuring that modern healthcare is no longer a luxury reserved for urban centers but a right available to all citizens.
Addressing the gathering on Saturday, Prof. Essien highlighted the strategic and historical significance of the location, noting that Mbiaso—a name meaning “doctors” in Ibibio—is now home to a facility capable of serving over 25 villages across the Ikot Ekpene and Obot Akara Local Government Areas.
He drew a historical parallel to 1905, when the Methodist Church established the area’s first health post. In a gesture of continued partnership, the Methodist Church Nigeria donated the land for this modern facility, which the Governor’s representative hailed as a perfect example of “history repeating itself” through community-focused governance.
The new health center is fully equipped to handle a wide range of medical needs, including maternal care, immunizations, and emergency responses.
To ensure immediate functionality, the state government has already deployed a team of qualified doctors and nurses to the site.
Furthermore, the emergency capabilities of the center have been bolstered by the donation of a brand-new ambulance from the Member representing the Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency, Hon. Jerry Otu, ensuring rapid transit for critical cases to the General Hospital when necessary.
During the ceremony, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, provided an overview of the facility and urged residents to abandon unregulated traditional birth attendants in favour of the professional services now available.
He emphasized that the center is a physical manifestation of the Governor’s “ARISE Agenda,” designed to provide “walk the talk” results in the health sector.
Dr. John also used the platform to encourage local leaders to sensitize their people on the State Health Insurance Scheme to ensure that the cost of care remains affordable for the most vulnerable.
The event saw a massive turnout of local stakeholders, traditional rulers, and residents who celebrated the project with cultural displays.
Leading figures, including the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene LGA, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, and Paramount Ruler, Okuku Udo Ukut, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for addressing the community’s long-standing healthcare challenges.
Stakeholders noted that by providing high-quality medical infrastructure and improving the road networks leading to Mbiaso, the administration has effectively removed the geographic and financial barriers that previously hindered access to life-saving treatment.
