By Kingsley Agim and Jessica Ubi
Preparations for the 66th National Council on Health (NCH) in Cross River State received a royal endorsement on Tuesday as the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, led a high-powered delegation of health sector stakeholders to the palace of His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, the Obong of Calabar and Treaty King of the Efik Kingdom.
The visit, held at the Obong’s Palace in Calabar, was both symbolic and strategic, bridging traditional authority with modern governance as the state intensifies efforts to host Nigeria’s highest decision-making body on health policy from November 17 to 21, 2025.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Ayuk explained that the delegation’s purpose was to formally inform and invite the revered monarch to the national meeting, as well as to seek his royal blessings ahead of the event.
“We felt it was non-negotiable to personally visit and seek the blessings of the revered Obong of Calabar, not just as a matter of respect, but as a critical step in ensuring the success and spiritual endorsement of this national summit,” the Commissioner stated. “The presence of His Eminence will add the necessary cultural authority and royal gravitas to an event where the direction of Nigeria’s entire health sector will be decided.”
Dr. Ayuk noted that hosting the 66th NCH (the first time ever) was a significant achievement for Cross River State, given its ongoing reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He described the Obong’s support as a “royal blessing” and an invaluable boost to the State’s health agenda under Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership.
In his response, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, expressed delight at what he described as a “historic and respectful” gesture by the Health Commissioner and his team. The monarch lauded Dr. Ayuk’s health sector leadership, describing him as a “natural leader” who has consistently demonstrated genuine concern for the well-being of the people.
Citing the Commissioner’s recent intervention at a health center in Adiabo, the Obong said:
“That is somebody who has the love of the people at heart, is thinking of the generality of the people, the area, and everything.”
The Treaty King assured the delegation of his presence at the opening ceremony of the NCH, promising to “add color” to the national event.
Among members of the Commissioner’s delegation were Dr. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health; Mrs. Uduak Spencer Efem, Special Adviser on Nursing Education and Training; and other key health sector officials.
The 66th National Council on Health, expected to draw top policymakers, health experts, and development partners from across Nigeria, will deliberate on strategies to strengthen the nation’s health systems, advance Universal Health Coverage, and align with global best practices.
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