…Approves MRI, Dialysis Machines, Completion of Ekefe Road, Others
History was made in Ukanafun Local Government Area on Friday as Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, commissioned a fully completed and equipped General Hospital at Ikot Akpankuk— the first functional secondary healthcare facility in the area since its creation in 1976.
The hospital, which began in 2009 as a cottage hospital, remained abandoned for years until Governor Eno revived, reconstructed, and completed it under his State of Emergency on Healthcare initiative. The project also features a newly built access road and internal road network, finally easing decades of difficulty experienced by residents seeking medical care.
Addressing a jubilant crowd, Governor Eno expressed gratitude for the people’s unwavering support and announced the approval of the completion of the Ekefe Road construction project. He immediately directed the Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga, to mobilize contractors to site.
“I’m happy in Ukanafun today because you have recognized that God has done something for you. Sickness does not recognize party affiliation. I am committed to transforming rural communities across Akwa Ibom State,” he said.
The governor also approved the installation of an MRI machine and dialysis units at the new hospital, emphasizing his determination to strengthen kidney-care facilities and reduce the need for residents to travel to Uyo for treatment.
“People here do not have to travel to Uyo for dialysis and kidney-related treatment,” he assured.
Governor Eno commended the Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem, for providing solar-powered streetlights and supporting healthcare upgrades across the state. He charged the Council Chairman, hospital management, youth groups, and community leaders to protect and sustain the newly delivered facility.
In his welcome remarks, Ukanafun LGA Chairman, Prince Uyo Ukpanah, said the hospital has restored pride and dignity to the area. He thanked the Governor for keeping his promise and pledged the people’s unwavering support as the administration moves toward 2027.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, recalled that the project—started in 2009—was abandoned until the intervention of Governor Umo Eno. He highlighted achievements under the Health Emergency Programme, including the delivery of 18 new staff apartments to enhance personnel retention and hospital efficiency.
Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga, explained the details of the access road project, while the Pioneer Medical Superintendent, Dr. Ekerette Sunday Dan, pledged to maintain high medical standards and efficient service delivery.
The Paramount Ruler of Ukanafun, Akuku (Engr.) Amos Daniel Akpan, expressed profound appreciation and conferred on Governor Eno the traditional title of “Ette Nchóñg Idem” (Father of Good Health) in recognition of his transformational work in the area.
In their goodwill messages, PDP State Chairman, Elder Aniekan Akpan; Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem; NMA Chairman, Dr. Dan Ekerette; House Member for Ukanafun, Hon. Ememabasi Udom; Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong; and other stakeholders described Governor Umo Eno as a compassionate and visionary leader.
They hailed the new General Hospital as an early Christmas gift the people of Ukanafun will cherish for generations.
Chief Edet Isong, Okete Okete Oro