When Senator Godswill Akpabio assumed office as Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2007, he inherited a healthcare system in dire need of reform. Over his eight-year tenure, Akpabio implemented comprehensive strategies that revitalized the state’s health sector, making quality healthcare more accessible to its citizens.

Building World-Class Infrastructure

A cornerstone of Akpabio’s healthcare revolution was the establishment of the Ibom Specialist Hospital in Uyo. This state-of-the-art facility, inaugurated in 2015, boasts 302 beds and offers a range of specialized medical services. The hospital was envisioned to curb medical tourism by providing advanced healthcare services within Nigeria .

Expanding Access to Healthcare

Akpabio’s administration prioritized making healthcare services accessible across the state. Key initiatives included:

• Free Medical Care: Implemented for pregnant women, children under five, and the elderly, ensuring vulnerable populations received necessary care .
• Primary Healthcare Centers: Construction of new centers and rehabilitation of existing ones across the three senatorial districts, bringing services closer to rural communities.
• Cottage Hospitals: Established in local government areas such as Essien Udim, Ibeno, Ukanafun, Eastern Obolo, and Ika, enhancing healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.

Combating Public Health Challenges

The administration tackled prevalent health issues through:

• HIV/AIDS Programs: Activation of eight anti-retroviral therapy centers, 15 prevention of mother-to-child transmission centers, and 37 HIV counseling and testing centers, all providing free services .
• Immunization Campaigns: Achieved high coverage rates to eradicate polio and other childhood diseases.
• Nutrition Support: Distribution of free food supplements to individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

Investing in Medical Personnel and Equipment

Recognizing the importance of healthcare workers, the government:

• Provided Utility Vehicles: Supplied 159 doctors with vehicles to facilitate their duties.
• Upgraded Equipment: Procured dialysis machines for the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital and other facilities, and constructed an oxygen plant to serve the state and neighboring regions .

Legacy and Impact

Akpabio’s holistic approach to healthcare reform not only improved infrastructure and services but also set a precedent for future administrations. His tenure is often cited as a period of “uncommon transformation,” reflecting the significant strides made in elevating the state’s healthcare standards .

 Senator Godswill Akpabio’s tenure as Governor marked a turning point in Akwa Ibom’s healthcare narrative. Through strategic investments and inclusive policies, he laid a robust foundation that continues to benefit the state’s residents, embodying a legacy of commitment to public health and welfare.