AKWA IBOM STATE HOSPITALS MANAGEMENT BOARD PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR NNRA

AKWA IBOM STATE HOSPITALS MANAGEMENT BOARD PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR NNRA

The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), Akwa Ibom Operational Office made a courtesy visit to the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Hospitals Management Board Dr. David Unyime Udoumo at the Board’s  Secretariat in Uyo, on 22^nd March, 2022.

The visit, according to the Operational Head of the NNRA, Akwa Ibom Operational Office Mrs. Ememobong Essien was to seek more collaborative efforts and create synergy between both Agencies in order to provide better services in the health sector by ensuring safety of patients, workers and the public at large from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. She briefed the Board on the mandate of NNRA through an abridged presentation on the legal framework of nuclear safety and radiation.

Mrs. Essien  went further to inform the Board about the Safe X-ray App, a software developed by the Authority (NNRA) on web and mobile platforms to assist the public in locating safe and licensed medical diagnostic radiology facilities with an integrated feedback mechanism system. She encouraged them to download the app and ensure frequent use of it and enlighten their stakeholders too.

The NNRA representative reiterated that, to enable the Authority carry out its mandate in the State smoothly and effectively, the following are required from the Board.

1. The release of facility names, contact details of the state owned primary and secondary health care facilities utilizing ionizing radiation generating equipment.
2. Issuance of introductory letters introducing the NNRA to these facilities.
3. Forwarding copies of the NNRA authorization forms to the facilities with the mandate for them to be filled and returned within a stipulated time.
4. A mandate for facility owners to link facility to the NNRA safe x-ray App so as to curb unregulated and unlicensed practices.
5. The need to sensitize the general public, patients and health workers on the need to be protected from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

Dr. David Udoumo, Chairman of the Board, in his response, acknowledged the importance of nuclear safety and radiation protection ACT, 19 of 1995 in Nigeria, stating that, it cannot be overemphasized. He commended the NNRA for a job well done in ensuring safety and security of the public and the environment and pledged his Government support. He informed the team that the State Government is working towards installing X–ray machines in the six (6) Senatorial Districts of the State. He pledged to work with the Authority to ensure the set goals are achieved and advised the NNRA team to seek for same audience with the Commissioner for Health.  He thereafter, requested that the safe x-ray app be installed on his phone immediately.

Also present at the meeting were other members of the Board and NNRA Team.