Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has inaugurated a Model Primary Healthcare Centre in Ikot Ekpe, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, while announcing plans to return soon for the commissioning of the 10.8-kilometre Mkpat Enin-Efa Road.

The Governor made the pledge on Monday during the inauguration, saying the two interventions were part of his administration’s drive to extend essential infrastructure and quality services to rural communities.

Represented by the Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga, Eno said the health centre fulfilled a commitment to the people of Mkpat Enin and reflected the healthcare component of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, said the facility had been equipped with modern medical facilities and adequately staffed to attend to residents of Ikot Ekpe and neighbouring communities. He said its location would reduce the distance residents, particularly pregnant women and children, travel to access basic healthcare.

Executive Chairman of Mkpat Enin LGA, Engr. Emmanuel Inyang, commended the Governor for the intervention and pledged the people’s support, while other stakeholders, including APC State Chairman Obong Stephen Ntukekpo and members of the state legislature, praised the administration’s grassroots development initiatives.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Eshiet, who hails from Ikot Ekpe, said the State Government had not only built and equipped the centre but also integrated it into the state healthcare system. He urged residents to protect the facility and ensure its proper use.