Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has reaffirmed that a robust healthcare system is essential to the wellbeing and economic growth of any nation. Speaking through the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, he stated unequivocally that only healthy citizens can effectively create wealth and drive development forward.
To illustrate his administration’s commitment, Governor Otu highlighted significant achievements over the past two years, including the renovation and re-equipping of 82 primary health centres across the state, upgraded dialysis services in Calabar and Ogoja, and the construction of a new general hospital in Ikom. Beyond infrastructure, four nursing and midwifery institutions have received full accreditation, a fistula centre was outfitted in Calabar, and key hospitals—such as College Hospital in Akamkpa and Ukem Hospital in Odukpani—have undergone comprehensive restoration.
In a groundbreaking move, Otu also unveiled the “Sweet Prince Palliative Healthcare Programme,” which provides free healthcare services to expectant mothers, children under five, and senior citizens. Complementing this is the operational State Health Insurance Scheme and the installation of medical oxygen plants in strategic locations.
But he didn’t stop there. Governor Otu revealed plans to elevate the retirement age for doctors from 60 to 65 years—aiming to retain experienced professionals, deepen internal capacity-building, and ensure mentorship for younger medical staff. In tandem, he inaugurated a State Council on Nutrition. This new body will steer policy, scale initiatives, and strengthen Cross River’s human capital by focusing on preventive healthcare, food security, and early childhood development.
Commenting on finances, Otu noted that strategic reinvestment in healthcare yields significant returns—not just in improved health outcomes, but also in productivity and reduced economic burden from preventable illnesses. His administration’s “people-first” mantra, he emphasized, isn’t a slogan—it’s the foundation of all policies.
The governor’s remarks concluded with a rallying cry: health must be a priority. By investing in nutrition, wellness, and equitable healthcare access, Cross River is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more resilient future.
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