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From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Thousands of kidney patients in Northern Cross River will soon stop making costly trips to Makurdi, Abakaliki, or Calabar for life-saving treatment.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu has approved funding to complete the first kidney dialysis centre at the General Hospital, Ogoja, ending a decades-long healthcare gap in the region.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, who announced this said it marks the first time residents of the northern senatorial district will have access to specialist renal care within their region.
“For years, patients battling kidney failure have faced physical, emotional, and financial hardship traveling out of state for dialysis. This intervention brings hope closer to home.” Dr. Ayuk said.
The Commissioner said the decision was driven by the rising cases of kidney failure and the complete absence of a functional dialysis referral centre in Northern Cross River.
“This is a strategic investment in people. It reflects Governor Otu’s commitment to equitable, people-centered healthcare under his administration’s development agenda.” Dr. Ayuk said.
The Ministry of Health assured that funds would be transparently utilized to ensure the project is completed on schedule and services commence without delay.
Once operational, the Ogoja Dialysis Centre is expected to end decades of medical migration for renal patients in the North, bringing specialist care within reach and saving lives.
The facility is expected to serve as a major referral hub for thousands of residents across five local government areas, drastically cutting treatment costs and improving survival outcomes.
