By Kingsley Agim
The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing construction work at General Hospital, Ikom, describing it as a signature project of the state government in the Central Senatorial District.
During an inspection tour, he emphasized the hospital’s strategic importance in expanding healthcare access and reducing the burden on residents who previously had to travel long distances for medical services. He also acknowledged the Etayip (Ikom Town) community for generously donating land for the project and noted that the nearby comprehensive healthcare center would serve as a complementary facility.
Dr. Ayuk assured that construction materials, including 700 bags of cement, are already on-site, and he expressed confidence that the project would be completed on schedule. He also highlighted Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to engaging relevant partners to ensure the hospital is fully equipped upon completion.
Additionally, he disclosed that the state government is prioritizing hospital renovations statewide, with plans to upgrade at least ten other healthcare facilities, including General Hospitals in Akamkpa, Obubra, and Ugep, as well as St. Joseph’s Hospital and Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital in Calabar South, among others.
Dr. Ayuk reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to strengthening the healthcare system, expressing optimism that many of these projects would be completed within the governor’s second year in office.
Meanwhile, Engineer Eric Achu, Managing Director of Peninsula Construction Limited, provided an update on the General Hospital Ikom project, stating that the design underwent multiple amendments to align with international medical standards. Despite these modifications, significant progress has been made, with substantial work completed in under three months.
However, he revealed that the project is awaiting the second tranche of funds to proceed further. He confirmed that his firm has been in communication with the Commissioner for Health, having submitted a funding request in November and receiving assurances in early January that funds were on the way. However, disbursement is still pending.
Engr. Achu also commended the strong support from the local community, stating that their enthusiasm for the project has fostered a harmonious and cooperative work environment.
The Commissioner was accompanied on the inspection tour by top government officials, notably the Commissioner III in the Local Government Service Commission, Mr. Ojong Eddy, Director of Finance and Supply of Ikom, Ntufam Obase Obi Etta, among others.
