As part of its designed effort towards strengthening emergency healthcare response in riverine and hard-to-reach communities across the state, the Rivers State Government has launched Boat Ambulance Emergency Medical Services.
Speaking at the rollout, organised by the Rivers State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (REMSAS), took place at the Tourist Beach, Port Harcourt, on Thursday (12/2/26), Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, said the deployment of boat ambulances represents a practical response to longstanding healthcare access challenges faced by residents of riverine communities.
Dr Oreh represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Prof. Justina Jumbo, noted that difficult terrain and long distances have historically hindered timely access to medical care for many residents in coastal areas.
She pointed out that the initiative is designed to bridge that gap and ensure that geographical location no longer determines access to emergency medical services.
The Commissioner made it clear that the intervention reflects the commitment of the Rivers State Government under Governor Siminalayi Fubara to provide equitable healthcare access for all residents, regardless of location.
In his speech, Vice Chairman of the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism, Dr. Ayo Ipinmoye, commended the state government for prioritising healthcare delivery to underserved communities.
He described the initiative as a significant step toward ensuring equitable access to health services, particularly for people living in remote areas who often face barriers to timely medical attention.
Dr Ipinmoye stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among government agencies, community leaders, development partners, and healthcare professionals to sustain improved healthcare delivery.
