By Joy Umo
The Cross River State Government says it is fully prepared to host the sixty sixth National Council on Health in Calabar, the first time the state will receive Nigeria’s highest health policy making body.
The meeting will take place from November 17 to 21, 2025, at the Calabar International Convention Centre. It is expected to attract health ministers, state commissioners, policy experts, development partners and other key stakeholders who will review and set new directions for healthcare delivery in the country.
The theme for this year’s meeting is My Health, My Right: Accelerating Universal Health Coverage through Equity, Resilience and Innovation. Deliberations will focus on strengthening the national health system, promoting health equity and deepening innovation across all levels of care.
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, will lead the federal government delegation. Senior officials from federal and state health institutions will also be in attendance.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu, represented by the Commissioner for Health and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, described the hosting right as a historic milestone for the state. He said Cross River welcomes the opportunity to showcase its strides in health system development and its commitment to the wellbeing of citizens.
“We feel honoured to host this important gathering in the paradise city of Calabar. Cross River remains committed to building a resilient health system and ensuring that every resident enjoys access to quality healthcare,” he stated.
Dr Ayuk assured that the state has put in place comprehensive logistical and technical arrangements to guarantee a successful event. He noted that hosting the council for the first time places a responsibility on the state to deliver an outstanding experience for delegates.
“We are ready to welcome participants from all thirty six states and the Federal Capital Territory. The council will provide a platform for meaningful engagement on universal health coverage, health equity and innovation,” he said.
According to him, decisions reached at the meeting will shape the implementation of the National Health Policy, influence reforms in primary healthcare, health financing and the welfare of health workers, and ultimately improve health outcomes nationwide.
He appealed to residents and stakeholders to extend warm hospitality to visitors, consistent with the reputation Calabar has earned over the years.
The National Council on Health is established under the National Health Act as the apex body responsible for formulating and reviewing policies for the nation’s health sector. Its annual meeting provides a platform for the federal and state governments to align priorities, share best practices and agree on policy actions aimed at improving healthcare service delivery across Nigeria.