Health boss calls for commitment to service

BY NSEOBONG DAVID

The Honourable Commissioner for  Health. Dr. EmemAbasi Bassey has charged staff of the Mary Slessor General Hospital Itu to be fully committed and dedicated to duties as reflected in the life and times of the Late Mary Mitchell Slessor.  Dr. Bassey gave the charge during the centenary celebration of the death of Mary Slessor at the Mary Slessor General Hospital, Itu.

Represented by Dr. Celestine Akpan, the health boss lauded the commitment of Late Mary Slessor which led to the establishment of the General Hospital which is named after her.

He said the Ministry salutes this ingenious and laudable initiative and also appreciate her giant strides in stopping the killing of twins as well as her dominant roles in improving the health condition of the people. 

Dr. Bassey also commended the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria for the initiative to hand over the hospital to government, describing it as a good gesture which would bring quality health care services to the people.
He assured that the state government will continue to provide good and affordable health care services to the populace for the needed benefits.

In his welcome address, the Medical Superintendent in charge of the hospital.  Dr. Calixtus I. E. Idio, described Mary Slessor as a legendary Scottish Lady who lived and spent a good part of her life in the Old Itu division.  Dr. Idio enumerated most of her notable works to include stopping of the killing of twin babies, banishment of twin mothers and slave trade in this part of Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Itu, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Edet Akpan Inyang who was represented by the Clan Head applauded the good virtues of Late Mary Slessor and the sacrifices she made in serving humanity.  He urged all to imbibe her good spirit when dealing with people.  While the Paramount Ruler of Ibiono Ibom L.G.A., His Royal Majesty Okuku Ime Udo Usoro Inyang, represented by Mr. Sunday Bassey called on the Nigerian Government to  immortalize the Late Mary Slessor.

In a goodwill message by the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria read by the Chaplain of the Mary Slessor General Hospital, Rev. Dr. Udoh Mbosowo described Mary Slessor as a role model for Christians and the public leaders to emulate.