Cross River's reigning Miss Tourism, Queen Blessing Ogar has sought partnership with the Ministry of Health to carry out medical outreaches in Odukpani, Yala and Etung Local Government Areas of the State.
A memorandum signed by the tourism ambassador and sent to the Ministry of Health, the Yala-born beauty queen stated that "as the reigning Miss Tourism, I am passionate about making a positive impact in our communities, particularly in the areas of health and well-being. It is with great enthusiasm that I propose collaborating with the State Ministry of Health to organize a health outreach programme in the aforementioned areas during the month of December."
"The primary objective of this partnership is to provide essential health services, education, and awareness to the residents of Odukpani, Etung, and Yala LGAs. By leveraging on the existing primary health care facilities, we can effectively reach a larger population and address their health concerns," she added.
Activities proposed by the queen include health screenings for common ailments such as malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and malnutrition; Immunization campaigns to ensure children and adults receive necessary vaccinations; Health education sessions on topics such as personal hygiene, family planning, and nutrition.
Others are the distribution of basic healthcare supplies such as mosquito nets, oral rehydration salts, and sanitary kits, as well as collaborate with local healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and referrals for specialized treatments, if required.
Ogar said the Ministry of Health's partnership would in no small measure assist in coordinating primary health care facilities in the selected LGAs; provision of medical personnel, equipment, and supplies for the outreach activities; provide guidance and supervision to ensure adherence to best practices and quality standards; and promote the outreach programme through official channels and community engagement.
The reigning Miss Tourism expressed optimism that the partnership would create lasting impact on the health and well-being of the residents in benefitting LGAs.
When quizzed on the proposed partnership, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, commended the young Blessing Ogar for the initiative to carry out health programmes in one LGA in the three senatorial district of the State.
He said the Ministry is pleased to have a young Cross Rivererian that is using her ambassadorial position to impact society in a positive way.
Ayuk assured that the Ministry will give Ogar the necessary support to achieve her set objectives for the betterment of the benefitting LGAs.
By Ebi Collins, The Beagle News
