Late High Chief Dr. Emmanuel Nyong Nsan, OFR Laid To Rest Amidst Eulogies
High Chief Dr. Emmanuel Nyong Nsan, OFR, a renowned medical professional, public servant, and statesman, was laid to rest on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in his hometown of Akpabuyo, Cross River State. Born on July 14, 1947, Dr. Nsan hailed from the esteemed Obong Nsan Ruling Family of Ifondo in Akpabuyo and the King Duke IX Royal Family of Duke House, embodying the proud heritage of Efik nobility.
Dr. Nsan's remarkable life was marked by humility, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving his people. His notable achievements include:
- Infrastructure Development: As Minister for Works and Housing, he constructed the Calabar-Ikang Federal Highway and built the Atimbo Bridge, which has driven development in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
- Healthcare Reforms: During his tenure as Minister for Health in 1985, he introduced the Primary Health Care Policy, transforming the health sector through initiatives like the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and the establishment of Primary Healthcare Centres nationwide.
- National Health Insurance Scheme: He initiated the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), launched in 1991.
- Constitutional Contributions: As an Elected Honourable Member representing Cross River South in the 1999 Constitutional Conference, he advocated for key reforms, including:
‣ Creation of Bakassi Local Government Area
‣ Resource Control and 13% Derivation Formulae
‣ Recognition of South South as a geopolitical zone
‣ Establishment of the Niger Delta Development Commission
‣ Rotational Presidency between the 6 Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria
Dr. Nsan's legacy is a testament to his tireless efforts to improve the lives of his people and contribute to Nigeria's development.
AIG Mbu Joseph Mbu (Rtd.) who is one of the numerous mentees and beneficiaries of Dr. Nsan's goodwill paid a tribute to a man he described as 'a great iroko":
"The great Iroko, fondly known as the "an employer of labour," has left an indelible mark on our lives. After completing my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 1983, I embarked on a journey to Lagos in search of employment opportunities. It was during this time that I met the late Dr. Lemmy Nsor Effa, who introduced me to the late Arc Sunny Ntan from Nde-Ikom.
Arc Ntan was a close staff to the Minister of Works and Housing, and it was through him that I met the young and dynamic medical doctor, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Nsan. Dr. Nsan was not only a medical practitioner but also a politician who made significant contributions to the development of our nation.
I recall a particular instance where a list of young graduates, including myself, was compiled to be sent to the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission. It was a moment of great uncertainty, but the following day, we received a letter with full authority from the Honorable Minister of Works and Housing, Lagos, addressed to the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission.
This encounter not only opened doors for me but also showcased Dr. Nsan's dedication to empowering young individuals including even Adokie Dappa a graduate from Uni Cal from Rivers State. His legacy as a compassionate leader, a visionary, and a true patriot will continue to inspire generations to come.
I later applied for the cadet ASP, cadet course 13, and out of 150 applicants from Cross River State, I was one of the 50 selected and later screened down to 15. It was during this time that Late Arc Sunny Ntan, a well-respected figure, intervened on my behalf, informing his superior that I, Joseph Mbu, was his real Ikom brother. This intervention was crucial, as it prevented the slots from being allocated solely to individuals from today's Akwa Ibom. Thanks to Dr. Nsan's efforts, seven of us were ultimately selected, including myself from Cross River and six others from Akwa Ibom of today
This experience marked the beginning of my rapid promotion through the ranks. By 2007, I had risen to the position of Deputy Commissioner of Police. It was then that I embarked on a search for Dr. Nsan, eager to express my gratitude for his kindness. Unfortunately, I was unsure if he was still alive or had passed on.
As Commissioner of Police in charge of police schools, I was on a mission to find a prominent figure who could facilitate a connection with the Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro, to establish the Police Secondary School Akpabuyo. That was when the paramount ruler connected me back to Dr. Emmanuel Nsan.
I recall meeting Dr. Nsan and his wife at a marriage ceremony in Ikot Ishie, and from that moment on, our connection grew stronger. The high chief would often affectionately call me "God Sent," and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have known him.
What struck me most about Dr. Nsan was his selfless nature. He would often help people without expecting anything in return, and his appointment of me and others was a testament to his kindness. When I eventually located him to express my gratitude, he was filled with shock and humility.
Dr. Nsan's legacy is a testament to his remarkable character and dedication to public service. He served as the Federal Minister of Works and Housing and later as the Minister of Health, among other distinguished positions. As I bid farewell to this great son of Cross River State, I remember his unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. May his soul rest in peace and may his legacy continue to inspire us to strive for greatness"