Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on residents to enrol in health insurance schemes to ease the cost of accessing specialised medical care at the ongoing Ibom International Hospital in Uyo.

The Governor made the appeal on Friday during an unscheduled inspection of the project site. He said the facility, when completed, will offer advanced healthcare services to Akwa Ibom people and residents of neighbouring states.

According to him, the hospital is being positioned to reduce the need for medical tourism by providing world-class treatment within the state.

Governor Eno disclosed that the facility will include cancer treatment units and early diagnostic centres. He explained that improved access to screening and examinations will help detect illnesses early and improve treatment outcomes.

“With early detection, many health conditions can be managed better and lives can be saved. That is why this hospital is important for our people,” he said.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, said medical professionals were actively involved in the planning and design of the hospital. He noted that about 40 consultants across various specialties contributed to assessing the state’s healthcare needs and shaping the facility.

Dr. John added that the input of specialists would ensure the hospital is equipped to handle complex cases and meet international standards.

The Consultant and Coordinator of the project, Dr. Teinye Isokari, said construction is ongoing across the three major wings of the facility.

She said work is being carried out day and night to meet the Governor’s June 2027 delivery target.

Dr. Isokari assured that the contractor is on schedule and that key equipment for diagnostics and specialised treatment will be installed as construction progresses.

Governor Eno expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state’s health sector through infrastructure and affordable access.