Akwa Ibom Begins Statewide Training for 350 Health Workers on Cholera Detection and Response

Akwa Ibom Begins Statewide Training for 350 Health Workers on Cholera Detection and Response

The Akwa Ibom State Government has commenced a comprehensive training programme on cholera sample management and rapid diagnostic testing for 350 health workers across the state. The initiative was formally launched by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel John, in Uyo.

The programme opened on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, at the Nigeria Labour Congress Conference Hall in Atan Offot. It will run for ten days and will equip participants from the Uyo, Eket and Ikot Ekpene senatorial districts with practical skills in cholera detection, sample handling and case management.

In his address, Dr John praised the World Health Organization, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, national facilitators and the State Epidemiology Unit for their continuous contribution to public health advancement in Akwa Ibom. He noted that recent cholera incidents were contained without any recorded deaths and attributed the outcome to the dedication and vigilance of health workers across the state.

Dr John urged the 350 participants to take full advantage of the training. He reminded them that the medical profession requires integrity, empathy and a strong sense of duty, especially when handling cases that involve life saving decisions. He encouraged them to demonstrate professionalism and to apply the knowledge gained in their various facilities.

He also commended the participants for being selected from health institutions across the state and encouraged them to champion high standards in surveillance, early reporting and effective case management. Dr John further invited guests and facilitators to explore the serene landscape of Akwa Ibom, describing the state as an emerging hub for leisure and tourism, with attractions such as the Arise Park Resort and the Akwa Ibom Golf Resort.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his leadership in the sector. He noted that the Governor’s declaration of a State of Emergency in health has already resulted in notable improvements in infrastructure, service delivery and health outcomes. He also commended the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Eneh, for her consistent dedication to public health interventions.

Welcoming the trainees, the Director of Public Health Services, Dr Etop Antia, described the programme as timely. He stated that the ability of Akwa Ibom to contain recent cholera cases without any loss of life reflects the strength of the state’s surveillance structures and the commitment of its frontline workforce. He encouraged participants to put the training to effective use in their respective areas.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the WHO State Coordinator, Dr Alawole Oluwa Bukola, and an NCDC representative, Mr Jubril Kareem. Both officials commended the state for its strong leadership in emergency preparedness and pledged continued support for surveillance, laboratory networking, data analysis and rapid response operations.

The cholera training is currently taking place across the three senatorial districts. It is expected to significantly improve the state’s readiness for early detection, swift response and prevention of future outbreaks.

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