Former Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Janet Ekpenyong, has congratulated Dr Betta Edu on the occasion of her 40th birthday, describing her as one of Nigeria’s brightest stars whose contributions to healthcare, humanitarian services and national development have continued to make a remarkable impact.
Dr Ekpenyong commended Dr Edu’s exceptional leadership, dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians, noting that her achievements across various levels of government reflect a passion for service and a determination to make a difference.
She recalled Dr Edu’s remarkable contributions as Director-General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, where she has demonstrated outstanding zeal and compassion for the people by advancing primary healthcare delivery, extending essential health services to rural communities and improving access to healthcare in underserved areas where such services were previously limited.
According to Dr Ekpenyong, Dr Edu’s impressive performance and dedication to duty paved the way for greater responsibilities, culminating in her appointment as Commissioner for Health in Cross River State. During her tenure, she championed several healthcare initiatives and policies, served as Chairman of the State Commissioners for Health Forum and played a significant role in the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
She further noted that Cross River State’s public health interventions during the period earned considerable recognition, reflecting the commitment of the state’s health leadership and workforce to combating infectious diseases and strengthening public health systems.
Dr Ekpenyong also acknowledged Dr Edu’s contributions as the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Women Leader, highlighting her mobilisation of women across the country and her efforts to strengthen the party’s support base ahead of the 2023 general elections.
She equally commended Dr Edu’s contributions to humanitarian services and poverty alleviation, noting that her work reached vulnerable populations across diverse communities, including rural settlements, slums, riverine communities and other hard-to-reach locations.
Describing Dr Edu’s 40th birthday as a celebration of service, leadership and impact, Dr Ekpenyong expressed optimism that the milestone would usher in greater accomplishments and new opportunities to contribute to national development.
“As you celebrate this remarkable milestone, I celebrate not only your 40 years of life but also your courage, resilience, commitment to service and the positive impact you have made in the lives of countless Nigerians.
“May the years ahead bring you greater accomplishments, renewed strength and more opportunities to serve humanity. I wish you continued success, good health and fulfilment in all your future endeavours,” Dr Ekpenyong said.
