By Nsikan Essien and Dominic Essien
UYO, Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was marked with purpose and reflection at a strategic Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment Workshop held in Uyo, where key health leaders, development partners, and stakeholders gathered to strengthen public health preparedness and resilience.
The event, hosted by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health in collaboration with national and international health bodies, brought together a high-level delegation led by the State Director of Public Health, Dr. Etop Antia. Other notable participants included State Epidemiologist Dr. Nchiek Eneh; Director of Nursing Services Mrs. Patricia Etim; Director of Disease Control and Immunization Dr. David Umoh; Deputy Director of Health Planning, Research and Statistics; WHO State Surveillance Officer Dr. Ekpoudom Ayakeme; and Dr. Biodun Ogunniyi from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). Representatives from FHI 360 and the Akwa Ibom State Primary Health Care Development Agency (AKSPHCDA) were also in attendance.
Beyond technical discussions on health threats and emergency preparedness, the workshop served as a platform to recognize and applaud leadership efforts driving health reform in the state. Participants extended heartfelt congratulations to the Hon. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, for his transformative vision. Special recognition was also given to Governor Umo Eno, PhD, for declaring a State of Emergency in the health sector and launching the ARISE Agenda, which prioritizes disease prevention, health promotion, and access to quality care under the banner of “Health Security for All Akwa Ibomites.”
The gathering also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his Renewed Hope Agenda, which aligns with broader goals of health system strengthening and national development.
In a symbolic highlight, attendees marked Nigeria’s independence with the cutting of a 65th-anniversary cake, moderated by NCDC State Surveillance Officer Victoria Akpan.
Goodwill messages throughout the event emphasized the importance of multisectoral collaboration in addressing both emerging and re-emerging public health threats. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to building robust systems for health security at the state and national levels.
The workshop served as a timely reminder that Nigeria’s journey to development must be underpinned by resilient health systems capable of safeguarding lives in the face of growing global and local challenges.
