The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, has lauded the free medical outreach initiative of the wife of the Governor, Bishop (Dr.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, describing it as a major intervention that is expanding access to healthcare across the state.
Speaking at Ugep during the commencement of the 9th edition of the week-long outreach, on Monday, Dr. Ayuk said the programme has become a critical support system for the health sector, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations.
He noted that many beneficiaries have lived with untreated ailments for years due to lack of access and financial constraints, but are now receiving much-needed medical attention through the initiative.
“This is a great initiative by Her Excellency to support her husband and the health sector. It has become one of the strongest motivations for us, especially in providing increased access to healthcare for our people, particularly the vulnerable,” he said.
The Commissioner disclosed that the outreach, now in its ninth edition, has recorded widespread impact across the state, reaching communities from Calabar to Obudu, Ogoja, Ikom and Akamkpa, with large turnouts recorded in each location.
According to him, the programme is significantly reducing the cost of accessing healthcare by bringing services directly to rural communities where access is limited.
“You can see the turnout even on the first day. Across the state, we have witnessed similar experiences. This initiative is truly making a difference in the lives of our people,” Ayuk added.
He described the outreach as one of the most impactful health interventions under the administration of Governor Bassey Otu, noting that it complements ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in the state.
Dr. Ayuk called on community leaders, religious bodies, and other stakeholders to intensify mobilization efforts to ensure more residents benefit from the exercise, which will run throughout the week.
“This is an opportunity our people must take advantage of. We urge leaders and churches to mobilize their members as the outreach continues until Sunday,” he said.
The Commissioner also expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her commitment to improving the wellbeing of citizens, praying for continued strength and good health as she sustains the initiative.
Kingsley Agim
