The Rivers state governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has said the state has achieved enormous success in reducing the rate of malaria infection and HIV/AIDS because of the robust partnership it has with the World Health Organization (WHO).
Special Assistant (Media) to the governor, Kelvin Ebiri said the governor stated this in press statement Monday when he met the World Health Organisation (WHO) at Government House, Port Harcourt.
The governor noted that the issuance of polio free status certificate of clearance to Nigeria was made possible because of the partnership with WHO.
“If you did not work hard with us, probably it would not have been possible. Our ideas and your partnership made it very easy for us to get to the level we are.
“The relationship between the state government and WHO is an interesting and rewarding one and that was why when you asked for accommodation, we did not hesitate to provide you a befitting and furnished office.
“We believe that partnering with you will go a long way in improving our healthcare system. When medical workers go on strike, I asked to know why the strike and solve the problem.
“I can also tell you of the cooperation and support we get from the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA). Working together with them, we believe we will continue to correct the challenges.”
The governor described the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic as a storm across the globe that challenged every sane government to seek out enduring measures to safeguard its citizens
“No sane leader will fold his hands, and not work hard. The COVID-19 has affected every government economically and so things have changed.
“However, we will not relent to see that our people are free from it even though it is not easy. In most rural areas, some people don’t even believe that it exists except you carry our enlightenment. It is our responsibility to make sure that we do the right thing.”
Speaking further, Governor Wike said he is satisfied with the rate of COVID-19 testing and vaccination, with the state ranked as third as regards testing in the country.
Governor Wike said his Commissioner of Health had briefed him of the level of support gained to ease the vaccination process.
