AKWA IBOM STATE Public Health Emergency Operations Centre - Pheoc

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

State Epidemiologist Presents Epidemiology Unit’s 2025 Public Health Achievements, Outlines 2026 Priorities in Akwa Ibom

The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Edet Eneh, has presented the 2025 performance report of the Epidemiology Unit of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health, highlighting key achievements in disease surveillance, outbreak response, epidemic preparedness, and health security, while unveiling strategic priorities for 2026.

Dr. Eneh made the presentation during the Ministry’s sector-wide review and annual performance assessment convened by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, as part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening accountability, efficiency, and results-driven governance in the health sector.

2025 Achievements of the Epidemiology Unit

Presenting on behalf of the Epidemiology Unit, Dr. Eneh reported the successful development of the Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment and the Epidemic Preparedness and Response Plan (EPRP) for Akwa Ibom State, describing them as foundational tools for proactive planning, coordinated response, and effective management of public health emergencies.

She disclosed that the Unit coordinated the training of 350 health care workers across the State on Cholera Sample Management and Rapid Diagnostic Testing (RDT), a critical intervention that strengthened early detection, laboratory confirmation, and prompt response to cholera cases, especially in high-risk communities.

In a major boost to surveillance sensitivity, the Epidemiology Unit successfully conducted six months of Retrospective Facility-Based Active Case Search (FRACS) and Community Active Case Search (CACS) in 20 previously silent wards, improving case detection, closing surveillance gaps, and strengthening community-based reporting.

Dr. Eneh further highlighted the effective investigation, management, and containment of Diphtheria, Cholera, Mpox, and Measles outbreaks recorded in the State during the review period, attributing the successes to rapid response mechanisms, improved inter-sectoral coordination, and strengthened local-level surveillance.

To enhance real-time disease reporting, she announced the training, digitization, and deployment of tablets to Surveillance Officers in all 31 Local Government Areas, enabling timely reporting and monitoring through the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS). She noted that the intervention has significantly improved data timeliness, accuracy, and use for public health decision-making.

Dr. Eneh also reported sustained risk communication and community sensitization activities on the prevention and control of Mpox, Cholera, Measles, Diphtheria, and other priority diseases, carried out through schools, markets, health facilities, and media platforms, contributing to improved public awareness and early health-seeking behaviour.

In addition, she announced the establishment of a Research Hub within the Epidemiology Unit, designed to promote operational research, support data analysis, and strengthen evidence-based public health practice across the State.

2026 Workplan and Strategic Direction

Looking ahead, Dr. Eneh outlined the Epidemiology Unit’s 2026 workplan, which includes the conduct of the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) and the development of the State Action Plan on Health Security (SAPH). She explained that these initiatives will assess Akwa Ibom State’s capacities under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and provide a structured roadmap for strengthening health security using a multi-sectoral and One Health approach.

Other priority actions for 2026 include expanded capacity building for surveillance and response personnel, further integration of digital surveillance tools, enhanced partner coordination, and sustained investments in epidemic preparedness, prevention, and response systems.

Dr. Eneh reaffirmed the Epidemiology Unit’s commitment to aligning with the Ministry’s reform agenda and delivering measurable public health impact, noting that the overarching goal remains the protection of lives, early detection of threats, and the development of a resilient, responsive, and people-centred public health system for Akwa Ibom State.

09/01/2026

Health Commissioner Announces Performance-Driven Reforms as Akwa Ibom Takes Delivery of New 128-slice CT Scan machine for Ibom Specialist Hospital.

The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel John, has unveiled a new phase of reforms aimed at strengthening accountability, efficiency and service delivery across Akwa Ibom State’s health sector.

The Commissioner made this known during a sector-wide review and annual performance assessment involving heads of departments, programme coordinators and technical leads of the Ministry of Health. He said the reforms mark a decisive shift toward results-based governance, where performance, impact and measurable outcomes will guide leadership decisions.

Dr Ekem stated that the Ministry would no longer tolerate complacency or ineffective management, warning that programme heads and unit leaders who fail to meet agreed targets will be reviewed and, where necessary, replaced.

“This year brings new standards, new policies and a renewed focus on results. Every unit must justify its relevance through impact. Performance will determine continuity,” he said.
He explained that the review session was designed to take stock of achievements, identify operational gaps and realign priorities, noting that success would now be judged by real improvements in healthcare delivery rather than routine administrative activities.

As part of the update, the Commissioner announced that the Akwa Ibom State Government under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno, as part of the strategic response to the State of Emergency in the Health sector, has purchased and taken delivery of a new 128-slice CT scanner for Ibom Specialist Hospital. He described the acquisition as a major investment in advanced diagnostics that will reduce outbound medical referrals, improve clinical decision-making and expand access to high-quality care for residents.

According to him, the new CT scanner further reflects the Governor’s commitment to modernising healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that Akwa Ibom citizens can access world-class diagnostic services within the state.

In a related development, Dr Ekem announced a strategic leadership reorganisation within the Ministry’s technical structure, with the appointment of Architect Itohowo Charles as the new Head of Technical Units. He said the move is intended to strengthen project coordination, improve programme ex*****on and enhance synergy across departments.He expressed confidence in her professional competence and leadership capacity, charging her to provide effective oversight and drive higher standards across the Ministry’s technical operations.

The Commissioner concluded by urging all staff and programme leaders to align with the reform agenda, adapt to evolving expectations and recommit to public service, noting that the ultimate objective is to build a more responsive, efficient and people-centred health system for Akwa Ibom State.

Info and PR Unit
Ministry of Health

06/01/2026

AKWA IBOM EPIDEMIOLOGY UNIT HOLDS FIRST PHEOC MEETING OF 2026, SETS STRATEGIC AGENDA FOR Q1

The Epidemiology Unit, Directorate of Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday, 6th January 2026, held its first Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) meeting of the year at the Situation Room of the Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (AKS-PHEOC).

The meeting, which marked the official commencement of activities for the year 2026, was presided over by the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Edet Eneh, and brought together all staff of the Epidemiology Unit alongside key stakeholders in disease surveillance and outbreak management.

Proceedings commenced with a session of praise and worship, during which participants expressed gratitude to God for the achievements recorded in the year 2025 and sought divine guidance, wisdom, and strength for greater accomplishments in the new year.

In her opening remarks, the State Epidemiologist thanked God for His mercies, protection, and guidance over the Unit and its personnel. She expressed deep appreciation to all staff for their dedication and resilience in the previous year, particularly in the areas of disease surveillance, outbreak preparedness, and response. Dr. Eneh further urged all staff to remain committed, disciplined, and proactive in the discharge of their duties, emphasizing that professionalism, teamwork, and accountability remain critical to achieving public health goals in the State.

A major highlight of the meeting was the development of the Workplan for the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, in line with the State’s public health priorities and national disease surveillance frameworks. The workplan outlined key activities, timelines, and deliverables, with responsible officers clearly assigned to ensure effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

Earlier in the meeting, members of the Unit engaged in a comprehensive review of achievements recorded in the outgone year, 2025. Discussions focused on surveillance performance, outbreak response, inter-sectoral collaboration, partner support, and lessons learnt, with a view to strengthening systems and improving outcomes in 2026.

The Public Health Laboratory Focal Person, Mrs. Enobong Ubong, delivered a detailed presentation on laboratory results received to date and those still pending. She assured participants that the laboratory is actively tracking all outstanding results to ensure timely feedback for public health action. Mrs. Ubong also provided an overview of diagnostic outputs from the State Public Health Laboratory and announced that the laboratory has been optimised by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to conduct Cholera culture, a significant milestone that enhances the State’s capacity for cholera detection, confirmation, and response.

In a strategic move to strengthen evidence-based practice and capacity building, the Unit, under the leadership of the State Epidemiologist, unanimously approved the establishment of a Research and Education Sub-Unit. The new sub-unit is expected to drive operational research, documentation, knowledge generation, and continuous professional development within the Epidemiology Unit.

Additionally, officers responsible for Research and Education, Health Promotion Activities, Monitoring and Evaluation, Administration, Logistics, General Office Management, Cleaning and Sanitation, and Security were charged to intensify efforts in their respective areas to ensure optimal functionality of the Unit and the PHEOC.

The meeting also reaffirmed the importance of timely data reporting, effective coordination during public health emergencies, adherence to standard operating procedures, and sustained collaboration with partners.

In attendance were all staff of the Epidemiology Unit, the Public Health Laboratory Focal Person, Mrs. Enobong Ubong, and the FHI360 Technical Officer for Outbreak Management, whose presence further underscored the importance of partnership in strengthening disease surveillance and response in Akwa Ibom State.

The meeting, which commenced at 9:00 a.m., concluded successfully at 1:40 p.m., setting a clear direction for coordinated public health action and preparedness in the year 2026.

06/01/2026

Ministry of Health Holds Thanksgiving Service to Begin the New Year

The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health has held its first Thanksgiving Service for the year 2026, marking the commencement of the new working year. The Thanksgiving service took place on January 5, 2026, at the Ministry’s car park.

Speaking during the service, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, admonished staff of the Ministry to demonstrate greater professionalism, dedication, and commitment to their duties. He noted that the ongoing remodeling of the Ministry’s office complex is aimed at creating a more conducive work environment and stressed that improved working conditions should translate into better productivity and service delivery in the year ahead.

Dr. John expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary, Directors, Heads of Units, and the entire staff of the Ministry for their cooperation, prayers, and hard work, which contributed significantly to the successes recorded in 2025. He further encouraged staff to intensify their efforts to ensure that 2026 becomes a year of even greater accomplishments for the health sector.

The Commissioner also commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for his exceptional leadership and vision, noting that the numerous projects and initiatives executed under his administration have continued to uplift and transform the state’s health sector and overall development.

Delivering a message on the topic: “My Father, My Father,” the Ministry’s Chaplain, Pastor Usen A. Daniel, drew his text from Genesis 1:1, Isaiah 43:19, and Acts 27:2. He elaborated on the need for believers to walk in the light, noting that light dispels darkness.
Pastor Daniel admonished staff of the Ministry to seek God early and make positive decisions that will yield positive results in the days ahead. He described the service as a significant step taken by the Ministry of Health to seek God’s guidance and commit its plans for the new year into His hands.

Present at the service were the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Patrick Essiet, Directors, Heads of Units, and the entire staff of the Ministry.

Info and PR Unit
Ministry of Health

02/01/2026

PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

As Nigerians enter the festive season, the Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (AKS-PHEOC) in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly while prioritising health, safety, and well-being.

The festive period is often marked by increased travel, large social gatherings, and shared meals. Combined with the dry season, these factors significantly heighten the risk of infectious disease transmission. Members of the public are therefore advised to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.

KEY PUBLIC HEALTH RISKS DURING THE FESTIVE PERIOD

✓ Lassa Fever

✓ Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM)

✓ Mpox

✓ Diarrhoeal Diseases and Foodborne Illnesses, often linked to poor food handling, storage, and hygiene practices

✓ Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Increased illness during this period may lead to misuse or overuse of antibiotics, accelerating antimicrobial resistance and making common infections more difficult to treat

GENERAL HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR THE SEASON

• Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

• Practise proper food hygiene: cook food thoroughly, store food safely, and consume only clean drinking water.

• Use face masks in crowded or poorly ventilated environments.

• Maintain physical distancing where possible, especially in large gatherings.

• Ensure routine immunisations are up to date, including meningitis vaccination, particularly for children.

• Seek prompt medical attention at the nearest health facility if you experience symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, or neck stiffness.

• Avoid self-medication and use antibiotics only when prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

The Akwa Ibom State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (AKS-PHEOC) remains committed to safeguarding the health of all Nigerians. By taking simple preventive actions, everyone can enjoy a safe, healthy, and memorable festive season.

Celebrate responsibly. Stay informed. Stay healthy.

31/12/2025

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2026 MESSAGE
FROM THE STATE EPIDEMIOLOGIST, AKWA IBOM STATE
DR. NCHIEK EDET ENEH

A wholehearted thanks to God Almighty, the giver and sustainer of life, who in His infinite mercy and grace has preserved us and brought us safely into the year 2026. We are deeply grateful for His protection, guidance, strength, and wisdom throughout the past year, even in the face of public health challenges and uncertainties. We acknowledge His faithfulness over Akwa Ibom State, our health workforce, and our communities, and we commit the New Year into His hands, trusting Him for renewed strength, divine direction, and greater accomplishments in our collective service to humanity.

As we step into the New Year 2026, I extend warm greetings and sincere goodwill to the Government and good people of Akwa Ibom State, particularly all stakeholders in public health, disease surveillance, and health security.

I most sincerely appreciate the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, whose people-centred governance continues to strengthen our health system and inspire excellence in service delivery. I equally acknowledge the steadfast support of the Honourable Commissioner for Health, the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Public Health, and all Directors in the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health for their guidance, collaboration, and sustained dedication to advancing public health in our dear State.

I extend profound gratitude to the staff of the Epidemiology Unit, whose professionalism, resilience, and tireless commitment remain the backbone of disease surveillance, preparedness, and response in Akwa Ibom State. I also commend our hardworking Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) and Assistant DSNOs (ADSNOs) across all Local Government Areas, as well as our invaluable Community Informants, who serve as the first line of alert within our communities. Your vigilance, sacrifice, and dedication continue to save lives and protect public health.

Our sincere appreciation goes to our esteemed partners and agencies for their enduring technical, financial, and operational support. We specially recognise the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), FHI360, AKISEMSAS, UNICEF, and the Akwa Ibom State Primary Health Care Development Agency (AKSPHCDA). Your partnership has significantly strengthened surveillance systems, outbreak preparedness and response, capacity building, and overall health security in Akwa Ibom State.

As we reflect on the past year, we are thankful for the progress recorded despite prevailing challenges. In 2026, we remain resolutely committed to strengthening disease surveillance, improving data quality, enhancing preparedness and response mechanisms, and fostering stronger collaboration at all levels. Together, we will continue to build a resilient and responsive health system that safeguards the health and wellbeing of every citizen of Akwa Ibom State.

On behalf of the Epidemiology Unit, I wish you and your families a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year 2026. May the year bring renewed strength, wisdom, unity, and greater achievements in our shared pursuit of public health excellence.

Thank you, and God bless Akwa Ibom State.

Dr. Nchiek Edet Eneh
State Epidemiologist
Akwa Ibom State

31/12/2025

Epidemiology Unit

31/12/2025

GOVERNOR UMO ENO COMMISSIONS Ultra-Modern PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRE IN NDUO EDUO, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO GRASSROOTS HEALTHCARE

Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, PhD has commissioned a fully equipped, ultra-modern Primary Health Centre (PHC) for the people of Nduo Eduo in Eket Local Government Area, reinforcing his administration’s unwavering commitment to equitable healthcare delivery and grassroots development.

The commissioning, which took place on Monday , 29th December, 2025 stood out not only for the quality and scope of the facility but also for the spirit of dedication demonstrated by the Governor. At a time traditionally reserved for rest and family, Governor Eno chose to remain on the field—engaging communities, inspecting projects, and delivering on promises. The remained resolute, exemplifying a leadership style defined by sacrifice, consistency, and a deeply personal commitment to the Akwa Ibom development agenda.

Speaking at the event, the Governor charged community leaders and stakeholders to take collective ownership of the facility, emphasizing that while government can provide infrastructure, only sustained community stewardship can guarantee its longevity and effectiveness. He reminded the people that the centre exists primarily to serve their families, children, and future generations.

The Nduo Eduo Primary Health Centre is one of the projects executed under the One Project Per Local Government initiative—an electioneering promise made by the Governor to the late Elder Ekwo and the people of the community. With the successful completion and commissioning of the facility, that promise has been fulfilled. In the same address, Governor Eno reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for mediocrity, expressing concern that several local governments have yet to complete their assigned projects more than two and a half years into the administration. He directed that non-performing contracts be terminated and subjected to appropriate financial audits, underscoring his insistence that public resources must translate into tangible value for citizens.

From a health sector perspective, the project reflects the Governor’s broader vision of inclusive and equitable development—one that deliberately decentralizes quality healthcare services from urban centres to rural and semi-urban communities. The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, described the facility as a clear demonstration of the administration’s resolve to translate policy vision into measurable health outcomes.

“This facility is not symbolic; it is fully functional,” Dr. John stated. “It is designed to directly respond to the real healthcare needs of the community.”

The centre is equipped with a labour ward fitted with modern resuscitaires, a well-equipped laboratory with automated analysers, an accident and emergency unit, an immunization room, a nutrition demonstration centre, a vaccine store, and staff quarters. It is fully staffed and powered by a solar energy system to ensure uninterrupted service delivery. These features mean that pregnant women will no longer travel long distances for skilled delivery, children will access timely immunization services, emergencies can be stabilized locally, and preventable illnesses will be detected and treated early.

Beyond infrastructure, the facility represents a strategic intervention in reducing health inequities, lowering out-of-pocket health expenditures, improving productivity, and restoring public confidence in government institutions at the grassroots. It also aligns with ongoing health sector reforms in the state, including the ARISE Health Insurance Scheme, which continues to expand financial risk protection and access to quality care for residents.

The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the Chairman of Eket Local Government Area and other stakeholders who have pledged support for the sustainability of the facility, particularly in the area of security. He noted that safeguarding the centre is synonymous with protecting the health, dignity, and wellbeing of the people it serves.

The commissioning of the Nduo Eduo Primary Health Centre marks more than the opening of a health facility; it is a reaffirmation of purpose by an administration that continues to work through holidays, fatigue, and challenges—driven by an unrelenting focus on the future of Akwa Ibom State. The Ministry of Health, Dr. John reaffirmed, remains fully committed to implementing the Governor’s vision with diligence, excellence, and an unwavering results-oriented approach for the benefit of all citizens.

30/12/2025

Governor Umo Eno Commissions Ultra-Modern Primary Health Centre in Eket, Reaffirms Commitment to Quality Healthcare Delivery

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commissioned a fully equipped ultra-modern Primary Health Centre at Nduo Eduo in Eket Local Government Area, describing the facility as a people-centred investment aimed at strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery across the state.

The commissioning ceremony, held on Monday, December 29, 2025, underscored the administration’s commitment to accessible, equitable, and quality primary healthcare services. Governor Eno charged community leaders, stakeholders, and residents to take collective responsibility for protecting and sustaining the facility for the benefit of present and future generations.

“This facility belongs to you. It is meant to serve your families and your community. I urge you to patronize it, protect it, and ensure it is not vandalized. Proper care and ownership will guarantee its long-term benefits,” the Governor said.

Governor Eno explained that the health centre is one of the flagship projects executed under the One Project Per Local Government initiative, fulfilling a promise made to the late Elder Ekwo and the people of Nduo Eduo. He commended the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, for his professional leadership, technical oversight, and dedication to ensuring the timely completion of the project in line with required standards.

While reaffirming his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on project abandonment, the Governor expressed concern over the slow pace of work in some local government areas. He disclosed that nine local governments were yet to complete their first-phase projects more than two and a half years into the administration, warning that contracts for such projects would be terminated if contractors failed to meet expectations.

The Governor further cautioned contractors against collecting mobilization funds without delivering projects as specified, or seeking unjustified cost variations. He stressed that any contractor found wanting after financial audits would be held accountable, alongside their guarantors, for public funds released.

Governor Eno also appealed to the people of Eket to maintain peace and support ongoing federal infrastructure development, particularly the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project, urging them not to disrupt construction activities around the Stubbs Creek axis.

Presenting an overview of the project, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, praised Governor Eno for prioritizing healthcare delivery and for personally commissioning the facility despite the Christmas holiday period. He described the centre as a symbolic and practical Christmas gift to the people of Eket, reflecting the Governor’s people-oriented leadership style.

Dr. John explained that the health centre was designed to meet modern primary healthcare standards and is fully equipped to deliver comprehensive services. Facilities include a resuscitation unit, a functional laboratory with an auto-haematology analyser, an accident and emergency unit, immunization and nutrition rooms, a vaccine store, staff quarters, and a solar-powered energy system to ensure uninterrupted service delivery. He added that the centre is fully staffed with trained health professionals.

The Commissioner further encouraged political leaders and community stakeholders to support the Governor’s broader health sector reforms, including the ARISE Health Insurance Scheme, which aims to expand financial protection and access to healthcare services. He also called on the Eket Local Government Council to provide adequate security to safeguard the facility from vandalism.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Hon. Akaninyene Tommy, expressed gratitude to Governor Eno for prioritizing grassroots development and delivering projects of direct relevance to the people.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, Chief Assam Assam, Prof. Maurice Ekwo, Prof. Etie Ben, Dr. Edikan Ackley, and the Chairman of the National Association of Government General and Dental Practitioners, all of whom commended Governor Eno for his transformative impact on the health sector in Akwa Ibom State.

Dignitaries present at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; and other senior government officials.

The commissioning of the Nduo Eduo Primary Health Centre further reinforces the Akwa Ibom State Government’s strategic focus on strengthening primary healthcare as the foundation for improved population health outcomes.

27/12/2025