AKS MINISTRY OF HEALTH HOLDS 2026 PARTNERS’ FORUM TO ENHANCE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY

As part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery in the state, the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health held its first quarter 2026 Partners’ Forum at the Ministry of Health Conference Hall to review partners’ accomplishments in 2025, unveil their strategic plans for 2026 and introduce the state partners mapping template.

In his address, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Essiet, noted that under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno, PhD, the health sector has recorded laudable projects and initiatives that are transforming the state’s healthcare system and fostering healthier living among the people through stronger partnerships. He disclosed that the Governor had earlier approved counterpart funds for Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) programmes and interventions.

The Honourable Commissioner further appreciated all partners in the state for their continued collaboration and sustained initiatives that have brought significant improvements to the health sector. He emphasized the need to deepen healthcare delivery in primary healthcare, maternal and child health, disease prevention and control, health financing, digital health systems, and capacity building.

Highlighting the importance of the meeting, Dr. Ekem John called on all partners to ensure that their projects align with state policies and that resources are channelled to areas in need of improvement. He appealed to them to remain committed to strengthening health interventions and working harmoniously with the Ministry of Health to achieve impactful outcomes. He further assured them of the state government’s support in providing a conducive environment for them to thrive.

The Deputy Director of Health Planning Research and Statistics, Dr George Ekanem outlined key objectives of partners mapping at the maiden meeting.

He stated that the initiative aims to identify implementing partners across the State, optimize collaboration among stakeholders, support efficient resource allocation, and align partners interests for stronger and more effective partnership.

The Director noted that the exercise will enhanced coordination, reduce duplication of efforts and improve all health service delivery in the State.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (AKSPHCDA), Dr Eno Attah expressed deep gratitude to the partners for their active contributions and interventions that continue to improve primary healthcare delivery in the state.

Development partners including WHO, UNICEF, ECEWS, CHAI, PMI Malaria Reach, Heartland Alliance, PATH, Rotary Healthy Communities Challenge Project, Knowledge Network for Disease Control and Vigilance (KNCV), the THRIVE projects, TA Connect, Data.FI, Helen Keller International, MSI Nigeria Reproductive Choices, VCare, and others have continued to support the state in critical areas such as primary healthcare strengthening, maternal and child health services, disease surveillance and control, tuberculosis and HIV interventions, nutrition programmes, family planning services, health financing, digital health innovations, and capacity building for health workers.

These collaborative efforts have significantly improved service delivery, enhanced data-driven decision-making, and expanded access to quality healthcare services across communities in the state.

Information and Public Relations Unit

Ministry of Health