Rivers State Launches Boat Ambulance To Tackle Health Emergency In Riverine Communities
The Rivers State Government has launched Boat Ambulance Services with the purpose to enhance emergency medical responses in riverine and hard-to-reach communities.
This initiative addresses longstanding challenges posed by difficult terrain and long distances, ensuring faster healthcare access across water areas.
The commissioning occurred at the Tourist Beach Waterfront in Port Harcourt, organized by the Rivers State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (REMSAS).
Two fully equipped boat ambulances were introduced, staffed by trained paramedics and featuring life-saving equipment.
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The Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh represented by Permanent Secretary Prof. Justina Jumbo, described the launch as a milestone reflecting Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to equitable healthcare.
She emphasized that “geography no longer determines survival,” urging communities to sustain the project.
The service aims to reduce response times, improve survival rates in coastal areas, and expand professional emergency care over land and water.
Federal Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Pate praised it as a model for nationwide innovation in reaching underserved populations.