Former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State and former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Obong Nsima Ekere, has described the Ibom International Hospital and Ibom Medical City as transformational healthcare infrastructure projects with significant socioeconomic and technological implications for Nigeria and Africa.
Speaking on telephone shortly after the official groundbreaking ceremony, Ekere commended Governor Umo Eno for initiating what he termed “strategic legacy investments” capable of positioning Akwa Ibom as a leading hub for advanced healthcare delivery, medical research, innovation, and medical tourism.
According to him, the projects are designed not only to improve access to world-class healthcare but also to help reverse the continent’s dependence on foreign medical services, which currently drains billions of dollars annually in medical tourism expenditure.
“These are not just Akwa Ibom projects; they are national and continental assets. They will strengthen healthcare delivery, attract investment, create employment, and establish Nigeria as a destination for medical excellence,” Ekere said.
He noted with pride that the Medical City would integrate modern healthcare technologies, specialist medical services, digital health systems, and advanced diagnostics, creating an ecosystem that supports innovation, clinical excellence, and professional development.
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Ekere further emphasized the project’s potential to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors, attract international patients, and provide opportunities for Nigerian healthcare professionals to practice at globally competitive standards.
“Beyond healthcare, this initiative is an investment in human capital, technology, innovation, and economic growth. It will help retain talent, attract expertise, and strengthen Africa’s healthcare capacity for the future,” he added.
He expressed confidence in Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to delivering the project, describing it as a critical component of the state’s broader vision to build a sustainable healthcare and innovation corridor capable of serving Nigeria and the African continent.
The Ibom Medical City and International Hospital projects are envisioned to serve as anchor institutions within a broader healthcare innovation corridor, positioning Akwa Ibom State as a regional hub for advanced medical care, biomedical research, healthcare technology, specialist training, and medical tourism in Africa.
