FG Launches Life-Saving Emergency Medical Service In Cross River State

According to Ireporter Online, the Federal Government has officially launched a state-of-the-art emergency call centre and ambulance service in Cross River State, aimed at providing swift and effective medical response during emergencies, including floods, fire outbreaks, road accidents, and other critical situations.

The flag-off ceremony took place on Tuesday at the General Hospital, Calabar, with Dr. Doubra Emuren, Programmes Manager of the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS), representing the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate.

Dr. Emuren stated that the initiative seeks to guarantee timely pre-hospital care and ambulance transport services for Nigerians, especially the poor and vulnerable. He noted that the programme is part of the Emergency Medical Treatment Gateway under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, established by the National Health Act, which ensures no one dies due to a lack of funding during emergencies.

He further explained that the initiative follows Prof. Pate’s directive for all states to establish functional emergency medical service frameworks. As part of this rollout, the Cross River State Emergency Medical Treatment Committee has been engaged to set up management and operational structures for the state’s emergency services.

Dr. Emuren emphasized that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Health and the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. Residents can now access ambulance services via a dedicated number, ensuring transport to hospitals regardless of financial status.

Dr. David Ushie, Technical Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on Universal Health Coverage, highlighted that the project ensures uninterrupted access to life-saving emergency care and supports Governor Bassey Otu’s People-First Agenda. The call centre, equipped with broadband internet, 24-hour power supply, and trained staff, will handle healthcare-related complaints and concerns promptly.

The state has deployed five ambulances initially, with plans to integrate both private and public ambulance operators. Dr. Ushie reassured that emergency medical services will be accessible to all residents, irrespective of financial capability or location.

Chief Godwin Iyala, Director-General of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency, welcomed the launch, describing the Emergency Medical Treatment Gateway as an “exciting and welcome development” that will significantly improve emergency healthcare access.

The Federal Government confirmed that the system will be expanded nationwide as part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s emergency healthcare infrastructure.