NMA Urges Akwa Ibom to Designate Ibom Medical City as Free Trade Zone

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), through its Akwa Ibom State branch, has called on Governor Umo Eno to designate the Ibom Medical City corridor as a Free Trade Zone. This initiative aims to attract both local and international investors, facilitating the establishment of world-class hospitals, pharmaceutical industries, and medical equipment manufacturing.

The NMA's statement, issued by its chairman Prof. Aniekan Peter, emphasizes the potential for creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth through the development of a 350-bed hospital at Ibom Medical City, which was unveiled the previous week. The association advocates for the establishment of healthcare institutions within the corridor to foster collaboration in clinical services, medical education, and research.

Additionally, they urge the state government to upgrade the Ibom Specialist Hospital and involve public-private investors in the development of the medical city, ensuring the highest standards of healthcare are met. The NMA reaffirms its readiness to partner with the state government to realize this vision.