C’River: 1,000 residents gain free medical support

By Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar

Over 1000 residents of Calabar South local government area of Cross River State have received free medical support courtesy of Arubah Specialist Hospital in collaboration with key health bodies.

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River State chapter, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), and the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital supported the initiative, tagged “Free Healthcare for All.”

The outreach, held at Government Secondary School Field, Atu Street, was organised to mark the birthday of the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Chief Emmanuel Ironbar, and was open to residents across the area.

Speaking at the event, Ironbar described the initiative as “thoughtful and impactful,” noting that it aligned with the government’s commitment to improving access to healthcare at the grassroots. He called for “stronger partnerships to expand medical services to underserved communities.”

Chief Medical Director, Arubah Specialist Hospital, Dr. Ikechukwu, said the outreach was part of the hospital’s corporate social responsibility, adding, “the large turnout underscores the urgent need for sustained community-based health interventions.”

The State Chairman, NMA, Dr Ezoke Epoke, described the programme as “a strong example of collaboration among health professionals,” pledging continued support for initiatives that promote preventive healthcare and reduce disease burden.

Services provided included eye examinations with reading glasses, fasting blood sugar tests, blood pressure checks, general consultations with free medication, and women’s health services.

One of the beneficiaries, Emediong Akpan, said: “I had an eye problem and was examined and given medications. I also have a BP issue and was counseled and treated. “I’m happy I received proper care. I hope this is done regularly to help people like us,” she said.