The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has described the Akwa Ibom Medical City project as one of the most ambitious healthcare infrastructure initiatives ever undertaken in Nigeria.
Speaking during the unveiling of the world-class facility in Uyo on Tuesday, Prof. Pate commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his vision, commitment, and determination to transform healthcare delivery in the state.
“You have shown remarkable vision, commitment and passion for your people. What we are witnessing here reflects the aspirations of the Federal Government’s healthcare reform agenda,” the minister said.
Prof. Pate assured the state government of the Federal Government’s support towards the successful completion and operation of the facility. He also pledged to facilitate engagement with Nigerian healthcare professionals in the diaspora willing to contribute their expertise to the development of the Medical City and the nation’s healthcare sector.
The minister further urged the state government to consider making health insurance compulsory to expand healthcare coverage and improve access to quality medical services for residents.
Earlier, Governor Umo Eno said the vision for the Medical City was conceived not only for the people of Akwa Ibom but also for Nigerians and Africans seeking world-class healthcare services.
According to him, the project aligns with the healthcare objectives of his administration’s ARISE Agenda as well as the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The governor disclosed that the Medical City occupies about 100 hectares of land, with dedicated sections for various medical specialties and healthcare-related services.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for development and supporting sub-national governments through ongoing reforms.
“The facility is designed to drastically reduce medical tourism by providing technologically advanced, patient-centred healthcare services comparable to global standards. This project is not just a construction project; it is an investment in the future health and prosperity of our people,” Governor Eno stated.
He added that the Medical City is expected to become financially self-sustaining over time while creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth in the state.
Providing an overview of the project, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel Ekem John, and the Project Manager, Dr. Teinye Isokariari, described the facility as more than a hospital, but a significant step toward healthcare excellence.
Dr. Isokariari revealed that the Medical City will feature a 10-storey complex housing 62 medical specialties and equipped with cutting-edge technology capable of delivering world-class healthcare services.
He further disclosed that 100 Akwa Ibom indigenes would be sent abroad for specialised training six months before the completion of the facility to enable them operate the sophisticated medical equipment to be installed at the centre.
According to him, the structure is supported by 356 foundation piles to ensure maximum stability and durability, assuring stakeholders that the project will meet international standards upon completion.
