Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has unveiled an ambitious Medical City project and announced the recruitment of 2,844 health workers as part of a sweeping healthcare expansion programme aimed at transforming the state’s medical sector, reducing outbound medical tourism and positioning Akwa Ibom as a leading destination for specialist healthcare services in Nigeria and across West Africa.
The governor unveiled the state-of-the-art Medical City during a ceremony attended by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, who pledged the Federal Government’s support for the initiative, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
Governor Eno said the Medical City is designed to provide world-class medical services, improve access to specialized healthcare and reduce the need for Nigerians to seek treatment abroad. He noted that the project aligns with his administration’s commitment to building a modern, accessible and resilient healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of residents while attracting patients from other parts of the country and beyond.
As part of the broader healthcare transformation agenda, the governor disclosed that 2,844 healthcare professionals have been employed to improve staffing levels across public health facilities, enhance service delivery and ensure that healthcare institutions are adequately equipped with skilled personnel.
According to him, the recruitment drive will strengthen primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare services, while supporting the state’s efforts to expand access to quality medical care in both urban and rural communities.
The Medical City is expected to feature advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, specialist hospitals, research and training centres, and other supporting infrastructure that will enhance the state’s capacity to deliver high-quality healthcare services.
The initiative is also expected to stimulate economic growth by creating employment opportunities, attracting private investment in the healthcare sector and positioning Akwa Ibom as a regional hub for medical excellence.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in people-centred development, saying healthcare remains a critical pillar of his government’s agenda to improve the quality of life for residents and build a healthier, more prosperous Akwa Ibom.
