There was excitement among the residents of Abi in Cross River State following the news that the state government has approved the renovation of their 60-year-old Eja Memorial General Hospital.
The hospital has been in a dilapidated condition forcing some of the residents to look elsewhere for medical attention.
Frederick Alloy, 76, a community chief said they suffered untold hardship as a result of non-availability of a standard health facility.
He said their women and other people had to depend on private patent medicine sellers.
“With the ongoing renovation of this hospital and the promise to equip it with modern medical equipment and personnel we are very elated. Our people will no longer travel far distances to access professional healthcare nor would they depend on quacks.”
Niger Delta Trust reports that massive renovation work started over four weeks ago following its enlistment as a facility to deliver the state’s brand of medicare, tagged ‘Ayadecare’ to the residents.
The commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu, said Governor Ben Ayade has approved funds for the total overhaul and revamping of the hospital to serve as a referral medical centre.
She said this is in addition to the building of new Primary Healthcare facilities and general hospitals as well supply of medical equipment in other LGAs.
