AKWA IBOM STATE Public Health Emergency Operations Centre - Pheoc

17/03/2026

AKWA IBOM INAUGURATES EPIDEMIC PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE COMMITTEE

The Director of Public Health Services, Dr. Bassey Akpan, on Tuesday, March 17, officially inaugurated members of the Akwa Ibom State Epidemic Preparedness and Response Committee on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John.

The inauguration ceremony took place during the committee’s inaugural meeting at the Conference Hall of the Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC), Ministry of Health, Uyo.

The committee is mandated to strengthen the State’s capacity for epidemic preparedness and response, in line with global best practices and the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health systems for effective disease control.

Membership of the committee cuts across key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including the State Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment, and Ministry of Agriculture. Other stakeholders represented include the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Akwa Ibom State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (AKISEMSAS), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), AK-RUWATSAN, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Information, Hospital Management Board (HMB), University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), academia, security agencies, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and development partners such as WHO, FHI360, and the Nigerian Red Cross.

The Director of Public Health Services, Dr. Bassey Akpan, also serves as an automatic member of the committee in addition to his role in inaugurating the team.

In his remarks, Dr. Bassey Akpan charged members to demonstrate commitment and professionalism in the discharge of their duties, emphasizing that their selection into the committee reflects the confidence reposed in their expertise and capacity. He urged them to justify this trust by contributing meaningfully to strengthening the State’s epidemic preparedness and response framework.

Dr. Akpan expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for declaring a state of emergency in the health sector—an initiative he noted has catalyzed significant reforms. He also commended the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, for his visionary leadership and sustained efforts in driving impactful health sector reforms in the State.

Earlier, the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Edet Eneh, highlighted the strategic importance of the committee in enhancing emergency preparedness and response systems. She called on members to bring their expertise to bear, stressing that a resilient health system is fundamental to safeguarding public health and promoting overall societal well-being.

Members of the Committee:

1. Dr. Nchiek Edet Eneh

2. Mrs. Aniefiok Akpan

3. Mrs. Idongesit Udoh

4. Mrs. Mercy John Eteowo

5. Mrs. Esther Bassey

6. Dr. Asukwo Onukak

7. Mrs. Ifure-obong Enang

8. Mr. Mfon James Akpan

9. Dr. Ekpotu Keyukemi

10. Dr. Abraham Ajibola

11. Mr. Umoh U. Antia

12. Dr. Adesoji Odukoya

13. Mr. Ini Asuquo Esak

14. Dr. Jacob Etiemana I.

15. Mrs. Dorathy Godwin-Norbert Okon

16. Mrs. Victoria Sunday Obot

17. Dr. Tolu Odeshi

18. Dr. Aniefiok Okokon

19. Dr. Nene Andem

20. Mr. Okorafor Johnson David

21. Dr. Utibeka Theresa Nde

22. Dr. Iniobong Joshua Inyang

23. Mrs. Victoria Akpan

24. Mrs. Cecilia Abang

25. Dr. Ekaette Augustine

26. Idaresit Ibanga Umoren

27. Mr. Nsikak Uwem Essien

28. Mr. Isaac E. Umana

29. Mr. Dominic John Essien

The inauguration marks a significant step toward strengthening multi-sectoral collaboration and enhancing the State’s readiness to prevent, detect, and respond effectively to public health emergencies.

16/03/2026

– Stay Hydrated, Especially in This Hot Weather!

The heat right now is INTENSE

💧 Dehydration can sneak up on you, causing headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and even heat exhaustion. Staying hydrated is key to staying healthy in this heat!

✅ Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily : You lose more fluids when it’s hot, so drink up!
✅ Avoid sugary drinks : They can worsen dehydration. Stick to water, coconut water, or natural fruit juices.
✅ Carry a reusable water bottle : Always have water handy, whether at work, home, or on the go.
✅ Eat water-rich foods : Snack on watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and pineapples to boost hydration.
✅ Watch for dehydration signs : Dry mouth, dark urine, and dizziness mean you need more water!

🚰 Don’t wait till you’re thirsty, drink water regularly! Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe in this heat.

15/03/2026

NAGGMP Donates Medical Consumables to AKSG

…Health Commissioner Commends Initiative

The National Association of Government General Medical Practitioners (NAGGMP) has donated medical consumables to the Akwa Ibom State Government through the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health as part of its contribution towards strengthening healthcare service delivery in the state.
Presenting the items on Friday 13th March at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Uyo, the leadership of NAGGMP, led by Dr Edikan Ackley, formally handed over the consumables to the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel John.
Dr Ackley said the gesture was aimed at supporting government efforts to prioritize quality healthcare services for the people and improve the availability of essential consumables in public health facilities.
Responding, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel John, appreciated the association for the thoughtful donation, describing it as a demonstration of commitment and partnership in advancing the health sector.
The Commissioner noted that the contribution of NAGGMP would help boost healthcare services across government health facilities and further strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers to effectively attend to patients.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to continue working closely with the association to improve healthcare delivery and ensure that residents of Akwa Ibom State have access to quality and affordable health services.
Dr John also assured that the donated consumables would be judiciously utilized for the benefit of patients in government hospitals across the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of NAGGMP, Dr Edikan Ackley, said the donation was part of the association’s corporate responsibility and its desire to support **Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda through the Ministry of Health in delivering effective healthcare services to the people.
He stated that government medical practitioners recognize the efforts of the state government and deemed it necessary to complement these efforts through the provision of essential medical consumables that will assist healthcare workers in delivering quality care to patients.
Dr Ackley also commended the leadership of the Commissioner for Health for its commitment to strengthening the health sector and improving service delivery across public health facilities.
He further disclosed that before the end of the year, twelve hospitals will benefit from the initiative. In the first phase, at least 200 hospital bed sheets, 1,000 litres of surgical spirit, surgical gloves, ward coats, and other medical consumables will be delivered to three reference hospitals located in Ikot Ekpene, Oron, and Eket.
In a vote of thanks, former Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr Ime Udoh, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for receiving the association and for the continued support given to medical practitioners in the state. He also thanked members of NAGGMP for their commitment and urged stakeholders to sustain collaboration aimed at strengthening health sector reforms in Akwa Ibom State.
Those in attendance included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Patrick Essiet, as well as Dr Idara Usen, Dr Kubiat Nduno, Dr Akaiso Oboko, Dr George Ekanem, and Dr Enyekere Ekaneyin, among others.

Info and PR Unit
Ministry of Health

14/03/2026

For the past few days, I have been in and out of the hospital for checkups, follow-ups, and treatment. During this period, I have witnessed several cases happening daily, but I want to talk about what happened yesterday.

I arrived at the hospital about 20 minutes after 10:00 pm because my injection and drip were scheduled for 10:40 pm. As I sat in the waiting area, I heard the siren of an approaching ambulance. Within seconds, the siren went silent and the ambulance drove into the premises with only the revolving emergency light on. The driver made a turn and carefully reversed to park properly by the entrance to allow easy removal of the patient.

After the ambulance was parked, I saw some medical personnel making arrangements through the window to move the patient inside. I later noticed that the ambulance belonged to the Akwa Ibom State Emergency Medical Service & Ambulance System (AKISEMSAS).

Not long after, I was called in for my injection, so I went inside. A few seconds later, the patient was finally brought in. To my surprise, it was a teenage girl of about 14 or 15 years old. She was already on a drip when she arrived.

The emergency personnel requested a bed from the nurses on duty, and she was immediately assigned one. They placed her on it and asked to see the doctor on duty so they could properly brief him about the case. The nurses called the doctor, and the briefing began.

They explained that they had received a call from the girl’s family that she had been bitten on the hand by a snake. They responded quickly, and upon arrival, they administered anti-venom before placing her on a drip. They also injected additional anti-venom into the drip to help flush the venom from her system.

I was able to hear the entire conversation because I was receiving my own treatment at the same time.

Why am I sharing this story?

It is simply to say that even if the government of Umo Eno has not met everyone’s expectations in every area, at least one sector is clearly getting the attention it deserves — the health sector. He is not playing politics with healthcare, and that deserves appreciation.

Let us remember what happened earlier this year on January 31. Ifunanya Nwangene, a 26-year-old singer and former contestant on The Voice Nigeria, was bitten by a snake while asleep in her flat in Abuja. Due to the lack of emergency response services, she had to take herself to the hospital. Sadly, despite rushing to seek care, she died a few hours later because of the lack of preparedness and emergency response.

But here we are today with a government that understands the importance of emergency healthcare services. We can only hope for continuous improvement in the health sector and better health outcomes for our society.

Thank you, Governor Umo Eno, for this initiative. It is an idea that could save the lives of many Akwa Ibomites and residents.




~Nsikak Umani

14/03/2026

MPH Students from Ahmadu Bello University Conclude Practicum at Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre

Master of Public Health (MPH) students from Ahmadu Bello University who were posted to the Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (AKS-PHEOC) in Uyo for their mandatory practicum exercise have successfully completed their training after an intensive period of hands-on public health experience.

The students concluded their stay at the Centre on Friday, 13th March 2026, after participating in a series of practical sessions designed to strengthen their capacity in emergency preparedness and response. Throughout the practicum, the students were exposed to key components of public health practice including disease surveillance, outbreak management, outbreak investigation, risk assessment, environmental surveillance, risk communication, laboratory processes, sample collection and movement, and public health emergency management.

During the period, different technical staff of the Centre facilitated sessions with the students, providing professional insights and practical demonstrations across various areas of public health operations. The training further provided them with practical exposure to active case search, supportive supervision, infection prevention and control (IPC), case management, public health laboratory operations, and broader public health programme management.

At the end of the exercise, the students delivered a comprehensive presentation on lessons learned during their stay at the Centre. The presentation took place at the Situation Room of the Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (AKS-PHEOC) in the presence of staff members, partners and other trainees.

Those present during the presentation included the **State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Edet Eneh; the President of the National Association of Resident Doctors, Dr. Emmanuel Akpan John; the Health Promotion Officer of the Epidemiology Unit, Mr. Dominic Essien; the Technical Advisor for Outbreak Management in Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Adesoji Odukoya; as well as other Industrial Training (IT) students from Woclif School of Health Technology.

The practicum activities were conducted under the direct supervision of the State Epidemiologist, who guided the students through the various technical areas of public health emergency preparedness and response.

The exercise provided the students with an invaluable opportunity to translate classroom knowledge into real-world public health practice while strengthening the capacity of future public health professionals in emergency response and disease surveillance systems.

The Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (AKS-PHEOC) continues to serve as a critical hub for training, coordination, and response to public health threats, while also supporting the development of the next generation of public health professionals.

If you want, I can also help you convert this into a clean press release format with headline, sub-headline, and photo caption (the style newspapers and government pages use).

11/03/2026

– Stay Hydrated, Especially in This Hot Weather!

The heat right now is INTENSE

Dehydration can sneak up on you, causing headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and even heat exhaustion. Staying hydrated is key to staying healthy in this heat!

✅ Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily : You lose more fluids when it’s hot, so drink up!
✅ Avoid sugary drinks : They can worsen dehydration. Stick to water, coconut water, or natural fruit juices.
✅ Carry a reusable water bottle : Always have water handy, whether at work, home, or on the go.
✅ Eat water-rich foods : Snack on watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and pineapples to boost hydration.
✅ Watch for dehydration signs : Dry mouth, dark urine, and dizziness mean you need more water!

🚰 Don’t wait till you’re thirsty, drink water regularly! Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe in this heat.

10/03/2026

Epidemiology Unit Holds March Surveillance and Data Review Meeting, Charts Path for Strengthened Disease Surveillance

The Epidemiology Unit of the Directorate of Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, led by the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Edet Eneh, on Monday, March 9, 2026, convened its monthly Surveillance and Data Review Meeting to evaluate ongoing public health surveillance activities and review the operational workplan for the month of March.

The meeting brought together all staff of the Epidemiology Unit and served as a strategic platform to review activities, assess progress, and align operational priorities with the Unit’s Annual Operational Plan (AOP).

In her opening remarks, Dr. Eneh emphasized the importance of periodic surveillance and data review meetings in strengthening disease monitoring systems, improving response coordination, and ensuring that surveillance activities remain responsive to emerging public health threats.

A major highlight of the meeting was the review of achievements recorded by the Unit in recent months. These included the successful implementation of the first phase of the Joint External Evaluation (JEE), a globally recognized assessment mechanism used to measure a country’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats.

The Unit also recorded significant progress in workforce capacity development through the successful organization of a Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Training, designed to strengthen the skills of core surveillance officers and enhance preparedness for public health emergencies across the state.

Participants further reviewed the successful conduct of supportive supervision visits to primary and secondary health facilities across the 31 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. These visits were aimed at strengthening surveillance reporting systems, improving data quality, and supporting frontline health workers responsible for disease detection and notification.

The meeting also highlighted the implementation of Active Case Search (ACS) activities across LGAs, particularly in previously identified silent wards where surveillance reporting had been suboptimal. These targeted interventions have significantly contributed to improving early detection of priority diseases and strengthening the sensitivity of the surveillance system.

In addition, the Unit assessed the impact of ongoing public health sensitization and awareness campaigns focused on the prevention and control of priority epidemic-prone diseases such as Mpox, Cholera, Diphtheria, Yellow fever, and Measles. Participants acknowledged the growing importance of digital platforms and resolved to intensify the use of social media and community engagement strategies to expand public awareness on preventive measures and early health-seeking behaviour.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to review operational challenges encountered in the course of implementing surveillance activities. Participants collectively examined these challenges and proposed practical solutions aimed at strengthening coordination, improving reporting timelines, and enhancing field-level response capacity.

Another key agenda of the meeting was the review of ongoing public health research initiatives currently being undertaken by the Epidemiology Unit. Progress reports were presented, and discussions focused on how the findings from these studies could support evidence-based decision-making and inform policy direction within the state’s public health system.

The performance and engagement of students currently undergoing public health practicum and field attachment within the Unit were also assessed. The meeting resolved to organize additional technical sessions and mentorship opportunities to ensure that the students are adequately exposed to practical public health surveillance systems and field epidemiology principles.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Eneh commended staff of the Unit for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to strengthening disease surveillance in the state. She encouraged them to remain focused and continue to deliver their responsibilities with diligence and a strong sense of public service.

She also expressed appreciation to the Honourable Commissioner for Health for the ongoing reforms in the health sector, noting that these reforms are gradually strengthening public health systems and improving service delivery.

Dr. Eneh further acknowledged the support and leadership of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, describing his role as instrumental in fostering a supportive administrative environment for public health programmes.

The State Epidemiologist also used the occasion to congratulate the Director of Public Health Services, Dr Bassey Akpan, on his appointment. She commended his leadership, wealth of professional experience, and continued support to the Epidemiology Unit, noting that his guidance has contributed significantly to the advancement of surveillance activities in the state.

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments from staff to sustain the momentum in disease surveillance, strengthen collaboration with partners and stakeholders, and continue implementing proactive measures aimed at protecting the health of communities across the state.

08/03/2026

Strengthening Health Security: Akwa Ibom Concludes Public Health Emergency Management Training

The Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Training organized to strengthen emergency preparedness and response capacity in Akwa Ibom State has successfully concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants.

The week-long training was held from Monday, 2nd March to Saturday, 7th March 2026 at Ceedapeg Hotel in Uyo.

The training was organized by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and FHI 360, as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s capacity for preparedness, coordination, and response to public health emergencies.

The Director of Public Health Services, Dr Bassey Akpan, alongside the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Edet Eneh, assisted in the presentation of certificates to participants who successfully completed the training.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Edet Eneh, emphasized that Public Health Emergency Management remains a critical pillar in strengthening health security and ensuring prompt detection and response to disease outbreaks and other public health threats. She encouraged participants to utilize the knowledge and practical skills acquired during the training to enhance disease surveillance, incident management, coordination, and rapid response activities within their respective Local Government Areas and health facilities.

In his remarks, the Director of Public Health Services, Dr Bassey Akpan, expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, Ph.D, for declaring a State of Emergency in the health sector and for championing critical reforms aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery across the state. He noted that the governor’s commitment and visionary leadership continue to drive significant improvements in the health sector.

Dr. Akpan also commended the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel John, for his dedication to ensuring the effective implementation of these reforms. She praised the Commissioner for his commitment, diligence, and selfless service toward advancing the mandate of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health and improving health outcomes for the people of the state.

The training forms part of ongoing efforts to build a resilient health system in Akwa Ibom State by strengthening the capacity of frontline public health officers and emergency responders to effectively prepare for, detect, and respond to emerging and re-emerging public health threats.

06/03/2026

04/03/2026

Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Training currently ongoing in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

04/03/2026

PRESS STATEMENT: Urgent State Action Needed as Lassa Fever Cases Rise

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has called for urgent and strengthened state level action as Lassa fever cases continue to rise during the current peak dry season (November–April).

With confirmed cases reported across multiple states and increasing infections among healthcare workers, NCDC emphasizes the need for full activation of State Incident Management Systems, strict enforcement of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures, adequate supply of PPE, improved surveillance, and stronger community engagement.

State governments are urged to prioritise outbreak response funding, protect healthcare workers, and close identified operational gaps contributing to preventable deaths.

🔗 Read the full press statement here:

https://ncdc.gov.ng/news/534/2-march-2026-%7C-ncdc-calls-for-strengthened-state-level-action-as-lassa-fever-cases-rise-during-peak-season

Members of the public are advised to:
✅Maintain clean environments ✅Prevent rodent infestation
✅Store food safely
✅Practice good hand hygiene
✅Seek early medical care at the nearest health facility if symptoms occur and avoid self medication.

Lassa fever is treatable, and early detection saves lives.

For inquiries or to report suspected cases, call the NCDC toll-free line: 6232.

Stay informed. Stay protected. Stay healthy.