Ambassador Hart Modey, recently honored with the prestigious 1000 Peace Ambassador Award by the Peace Ambassador Advocacy in recognition of his philanthropic efforts, has called on the government to focus on infrastructure development, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors, in Northern Cross River State. He emphasized that political leaders must prioritize the welfare of their constituents and address pressing issues such as deteriorating schools and healthcare facilities that hinder daily life and economic activities.
Modey highlighted the critical need for urgent repairs and upgrades of educational institutions and healthcare centers, including primary healthcare centers in areas like Abi Local Government Area, where facilities such as the Ediba Comprehensive Health Center are in a state of disrepair.
These institutions, vital for the well-being and development of Northern Cross River, have become increasingly dilapidated, causing severe challenges for students, patients, and the broader community.
He noted that the poor state of these facilities has led to a decline in educational standards and healthcare delivery, negatively impacting the community’s overall quality of life. “The neglect of these essential services not only hampers individual growth but also stifles the socio-economic development of the region,” Modey said.
The dilapidated condition of schools and healthcare centers has contributed to increased dropout rates, poor health outcomes, and a general decline in community well-being. Modey urged the government to hold contractors accountable for completing awarded projects on time and meeting quality standards to alleviate the suffering of students and patients.
IMPACTS OF NEGLECTED INFRASTRUCTURE
Modey drew attention to the devastating effects of neglected educational and healthcare infrastructure, including loss of lives due to inadequate medical facilities, higher costs for families seeking quality education and healthcare elsewhere, and reduced economic productivity. Students and patients are particularly hard-hit, as poor facilities make it difficult to receive quality education and healthcare, resulting in increased costs for families and the community.
He also stressed that improved infrastructure would bring numerous benefits to Cross River State and its people. Better schools and healthcare centers would enhance learning outcomes, ensure better health services, and create a more conducive environment for economic opportunities. For the community, improved facilities would lead to a more educated and healthier population, thus boosting income and productivity.
CALL FOR UNITY AND FOCUS
Modey urged lawmakers and political officeholders, regardless of party affiliation, to work together to address the pressing issue of infrastructure in the region. He emphasized that political defection and distractions should not derail their focus on delivering dividends of democracy. “The people come first since they are the ones who voted these leaders into office,” he said.
He also urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain focused on its development agenda while calling on the Federal Government to allocate resources for the renovation and upgrading of schools and healthcare centers in the northern part of the state. “This is not about party politics; it is about improving the quality of life for the people who elected you,” Modey stated.
A PATH TO PROGRESS AND PROSPERITY
Ambassador Modey concluded by reaffirming his commitment to advocating for infrastructure development, which he sees as the foundation for progress and prosperity. He called on all stakeholders—political leaders, contractors, and citizens—to play their part in ensuring that Northern Cross River State receives the attention and resources it deserves.
He noted that if the educational and healthcare facilities are improved, the region would witness better educational outcomes, improved health services, and enhanced socio-economic activities, benefiting not only the people of Cross River State but also neighboring communities and beyond.
Following Ambassador Hart Modey’s earlier statements on road infrastructure, the state government under Sen. Bassey Otu has commendably initiated major road repairs across the state.
