The Mission Hospital That Keeps Hope Alive I left Enugu early this morning for Ogoja/Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State.My first stop was the Catholic Maternity Hospital, Moniaya, Ogoja.This decades-old facility remains virtually the only maternity hospital serving the entire Ogoja area.Despite its age and the enormous responsibility it bears, it continues to provide care for thousands of women and newborns with limited resources.Nigeria still ranks among the countries with the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world, despite having overtaken countries such as China and India, whose populations are several times larger than ours.
This is not just a statistic; it represents mothers, babies, and families whose lives are forever changed by preventable tragedies.The hospital also operates a Tuberculosis and Leprosy Centre, providing vital healthcare services that are becoming increasingly rare.To support their commendable work, I made a token donation of ₦10 million and assured them of my continued partnership.I urge governments at all levels, the private sector, and well-meaning Nigerians to support institutions like this, run by voluntary and faith-based organisations. Investing in healthcare and education is investing in our future.- PO
Joseph Akwagiobe is a media contributor from Cross River State, Nigeria, currently based in Abuja. He is a graduate of Microbiology and has earned several professional certifications across diverse fields, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and excellence.