In support of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, the Akwa Ibom State Primary Healthcare Development Agency donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to various Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in the state. The Primary Healthcare Centers include: PHC Operational Base along Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo, Prince Bernard Sampson Idiong PHC, Ata Obio Akpa in Oruk Anam LGA, and PHC Iko Town in Eastern Obolo.
The Chairman of the Agency, Dr. Martin Akpan, while presenting PPE to these facilities, advised the staff on the need for consistent use of the tools while urging them to sensitize their clients on the dangers of coronavirus pandemic.
At the Prince Bernard Sampson Idiong PHC, Oruk Anam LGA, the Chairman commended the Officer-in-Charge of the facility, Princess Iniobong Sampson Idiong and the entire workforce for maintaining a high level of cleanliness and organization at the center. He advised them to make judicious use of the PPEs and follow guidelines provided by the health authorities in the discharge of their duties in order to stay alive to save more lives.
Dr. Akpan stated that handwashing, social distancing, and lockdown are proven public health measures used in the prevention and control of illnesses and infections. “This critical time in our history calls for collective action and sacrifice”.
Dr. Martin Akpan was accompanied by Board Member 1 of the Agency, Elder Sampson Unyeawaji, who praised Governor Udom Emmanuel for being proactive in his effort to contain the spread of the virus, noting that the palliatives recently announced by the Secretary to the State Government will aid in cushioning the effect of the pandemic during this lockdown. He used the occasion to appeal to Council Chairmen in the State who also serve as Chairmen of the Local Government Health Authorities to work with their Local Government representatives to increase COVID-19 sensitization in their local communities.
The Personal Protective Equipment donated by the Agency includes hand sanitizers, gloves, face masks, aprons, liquid soap, serviettes and facilities for running water.
Mrs. Mfon Okoro, Princess Iniobong Sampson Idiong and Mrs. Alice Michael who received the PPEs on behalf of their respective Primary Healthcare Centers, commended the Akwa Ibom State Primary Healthcare Development Agency for the benevolence and pledged to make good use of the items.