The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, on Friday announced Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s approval for the immediate renovation of the State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) at Moore Road, Calabar, describing the move as a significant investment in strengthening the state’s preparedness and response to disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
Dr. Ayuk said the Governor’s directive highlights his administration’s commitment to strengthening health security and emergency preparedness infrastructure under the People First agenda.
The Commissioner, who made the disclosure to reporters on Friday, explained that the approval followed an assessment of the facility, which revealed its deteriorating condition despite serving as the state’s central hub for coordinating responses to disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
He noted that Governor Otu immediately directed that renovation work commence without delay to restore the facility to a safe, functional, and modern emergency operations centre capable of effectively coordinating emergency responses across the state.
Dr. Ayuk described the intervention as timely and strategic, stressing that the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre plays a pivotal role in disease surveillance, epidemic preparedness, emergency coordination, and rapid response during public health crises.
According to the Commissioner, the renovation will not only address the structural deficiencies but also provide a more conducive environment for emergency operations, data management, incident coordination, and collaboration among health professionals and development partners.
He commended Governor Otu for his sustained investment in the health sector, noting that the administration has continued to prioritize healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, medical equipment, and emergency response systems aimed at improving service delivery.
The Commissioner added that the rehabilitation of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre is another demonstration of the Governor’s resolve to build a resilient healthcare system capable of preventing, detecting, and responding effectively to emerging public health threats while safeguarding the health and well-being of Cross River residents.
By Kingsley Agim
