The wife of the Cross River Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, has successfully concluded the 7th edition of her free medical outreach, providing 198 free surgeries, 644 eye care services, 148 dental care treatments, 220 laboratory tests, and 2,290 general consultations for vulnerable members of society.
This latest outreach took place at the General Hospital in Calabar, in collaboration with Faith Care Outreach International, and included both major and minor surgical procedures such as thyroidectomies (removal of goiters), hernia repairs (groin, umbilical, and incisional), uterine fibroid removals, ovarian cyst surgeries, appendectomies, and cesarean sections for residents of the state facing various financial constraints.
Speaking during the outreach, the Governor’s wife emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Governor, Apostle Bassey Edet Otu's, "people-first" leadership agenda, which aims to promote a healthy citizenry and advance the overall development of families, communities, and the state.
Bishop Eyoanwan Otu stated, "This free medical outreach is designed to provide quality healthcare services at no cost to the most vulnerable people in our state, ultimately reducing their out-of-pocket medical expenses."
"The positive testimonies and transformations we have witnessed from individuals benefitting from this initiative are heartwarming and inspire me to continue and expand the program. Many of them have lost hope due to financial difficulties, and their stories rekindle my passion for this work,” she added.
In their remarks, State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, and Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Development Agency, Dr. Vivien Mesembe Otu, commended the Governor’s wife for her impactful outreach, which has significantly enhanced healthcare services in rural areas.
They acknowledged the positive effects of free surgeries and healthcare services on those who struggle to afford medical care.
Mr. Amaobi Obi, an indigene of Anambra State residing in Calabar, expressed his gratitude after receiving free eye care services, including reading glasses and prayed for blessings on the Governor’s wife for her goodwill, noting that the outreach prioritizes humanity over tribalism.
Mrs. Nsa Etim also shared her appreciation, having received a free uterine fibroid surgery that would have cost her ₦500,000. She had suffered for two years without the procedure and was relieved to undergo surgery without any financial demands.
She urged individuals to support the continuation of this initiative, which provides essential healthcare for the needy.
Worthy of mention is that, the 7th edition of the outreach saw the birth of seven children, including three sets of twins.
While there are hopes for continued support, this initiative has already covered the three senatorial districts and is making a second round, with the northern and southern districts already having been visited.
