Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has approved a 100 percent salary increase for doctors in the state, a more than 100 percent increase in fiscal allocation to the health sector, and the recruitment of 2,000 additional health workers. This was disclosed by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, while briefing journalists in Calabar.
Key Healthcare Reforms Announced
Dr Ayuk announced that the embargo on employment in the health sector has been lifted. Governor Otu also approved enhanced allowances for other health personnel and the establishment of the Cross River State Hospital Management Board.
Infrastructure Development
The commissioner revealed that funds have been released for the renovation of General Hospital, Ukem, and Cottage Hospital, Oban, as well as the commencement of civil works at the abandoned General Hospital complex in Akpabuyo. These projects are part of the administration's efforts to revitalise public healthcare institutions and improve access to quality medical services across the state.
“Governor Bassey Otu has approved the release of funds for the renovation of General Hospital Ukem and Cottage Hospital Oban, as well as the commencement of civil works at the abandoned General Hospital complex in Akpabuyo,” he said.
Progress in Primary Healthcare
Ayuk noted that the latest intervention follows the successful revitalisation of more than 100 primary healthcare centres across the state within the last two years. He described this as evidence of the administration's commitment to rebuilding healthcare infrastructure.
He dismissed claims that the health sector had been neglected, maintaining that the Otu administration has increased funding to healthcare by more than 100 percent since assuming office. The increased investment has improved service delivery and laid a solid foundation for the ongoing transformation of secondary and tertiary health institutions.
Institutional Reforms
The commissioner described the establishment of the Hospital Management Board, following the signing of the enabling law by Governor Otu, as a major institutional reform aimed at strengthening the administration and efficiency of public hospitals.
Ayuk assured residents that all healthcare facilities in the state would benefit from the government's reform agenda, which seeks to build a modern, efficient and accessible healthcare system for all Cross Riverians. He reiterated the administration's commitment to sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, manpower development and service delivery as part of broader efforts to improve the quality of life of citizens across the state.
