In a significant move to enhance healthcare delivery in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno has inaugurated a model primary healthcare centre (PHC) in Ikot Osute, located in the Oruk Anam Local Government Area. This initiative, which coincided with the state's 39th anniversary celebration, aims to position Akwa Ibom as a prime destination for quality medical services and reduce the capital flight associated with medical tourism.

During the inauguration ceremony held on Sunday, Unyime Idem, the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, underscored the governor's commitment to the health sector. He emphasized that the investment in healthcare is a strategic effort to mitigate the financial drain caused by Nigerians seeking medical services abroad. "When you look at the aggressive transformation of His Excellency in the area of health, you can agree with me that he is doing this intentionally," Idem stated.

Governor Eno highlighted the alarming trend of Nigerians spending billions of dollars annually on medical tourism, asserting that his administration's focus on healthcare infrastructure is designed to attract a portion of that expenditure back to Akwa Ibom. He reassured residents that more healthcare projects are forthcoming under the ARISE Agenda, which aims to improve various sectors in the state.

The Chairman of Oruk Anam LGA, Sunday Festus, praised the governor for his administration's dedication to people-oriented projects, which encompass healthcare, road construction, education, and human capital development. He expressed gratitude for the new healthcare facility and other ongoing projects, including road improvements and the construction of Compassionate Homes in the area.

Ekem Emmanuel, the Commissioner for Health, explained that the model PHCs are designed to enhance primary healthcare services and alleviate the burden on secondary and tertiary facilities. He also announced that 500 residents of Oruk Anam have been enrolled in the state health insurance scheme, with health insurance cards distributed to beneficiaries from each community. This initiative aims to provide affordable healthcare access, particularly for those in grassroots communities, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their access to medical services.

Additionally, Johnson Obosi, the Paramount Ruler of Oruk Anam, expressed his support for the governor's initiatives, commending the administration's efforts to make quality healthcare accessible to the people of Akwa Ibom. He reiterated the commitment of traditional rulers to support the ongoing implementation of the ARISE Agenda, acknowledging the positive impact of these healthcare initiatives on the local population.