The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Doctor. Henry Ayuk, has urged National Health Fellows deployed across Local Government Areas of the State to align their work with grassroots realities, stressing that their role is pivotal in bridging service delivery gaps at the primary healthcare level.
The Commissioner stated this when he received a delegation of the Fellows on a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Calabar.
Doctor Ayuk charged the Fellows to go beyond ceremonial visits and verbal commendations and concentrate on documenting their field experiences, challenges, and proposals for better implementation of health interventions.
“You must present your ideas in a structured way, through written submissions and detailed work plans. That becomes the evidence of your engagement and the foundation for stronger collaboration,” he said.
He encouraged the Fellows to embrace their unique skills and leverage technology in data collection, monitoring, and support for revitalizing healthcare facilities under the State’s IMPACT Project.
According to him, the State has already revitalized 96 primary health care facilities across different LGAs, and Fellows posted in these locations should take advantage of the momentum to improve local service delivery.
“Do not wait for directives from Abuja. Create your own small work plans. Identify gaps, document them, and let your reports guide the system,” Dr. Ayuk advised.
He continued, “Each of you brings a different skill set, whether in computing, administration, or data handling; use those strengths to support the transformation happening at the grassroots.”
The Commissioner also emphasized the importance of local ownership and sustainability, adding that communities must be mobilized to partner with government in maintaining the quality of services being delivered.
While acknowledging the challenges that still exist in service delivery, Dr. Ayuk said the State is committed to continuous improvement and welcomes constructive engagement from all stakeholders, including National Health Fellows.
“What matters is not just coming to the office to pay visits. It is about outcomes, what impact are we creating? That is the true measure of success,” he stated.
The Commissioner noted that efforts are underway to organize future meetings involving key stakeholders for broader discussions on health systems reform.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the team lead, Mr. Etoma Uba, appreciated the Commissioner for the warm reception and acknowledged the progressive strides of the State government in the health sector.
“We are grateful for the support of the Ministry and the visible developmental efforts, especially under the IMPACT Project. We believe a stronger synergy with the State government will enhance our ability to support reforms at the primary healthcare level,” Uba said.
He added that the Fellows have been working across various LGAs, assessing the challenges of health facilities and identifying opportunities to support improved healthcare delivery.
As a mark of appreciation, the delegation presented an Award of Honor to Dr. Ayuk in recognition of his outstanding contributions and commitment to strengthening the State’s health system.
SOURCE: Mba Praise, FRCN, Calabar
