Otti renovates over 100 Health Centres to boost healthcare delivery in Abia

The Abia State Government has renovated and fully equipped over 100 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the state with modern medical equipment, as part of its efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and improve the welfare of residents.

During the inauguration of the Eziama Ubakala Primary Health Centre in Umuahia South Local Government Area of the state, Governor Alex Otti who was represented by the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, said the newly equipped health centres now feature point-of-care auto scans, malaria and typhoid diagnostic machines, multi-parameter monitors, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for managing cardiac arrest cases.

Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continuous investment and reform in the health sector, adding that Abia State ranked 36th out of 36 states in primary healthcare delivery at the start of his tenure but has since recorded remarkable improvements.

He described the commissioning of the Eziama Ubakala PHC as another milestone in his administration’s agenda to revitalize the state’s primary healthcare system.

The Governor also encouraged residents to register with the Abia State Health Insurance Scheme, emphasising that registration was free for children under six years and adults aged 70 and above. He assured that those enrolled in the scheme could access affordable and quality healthcare services at the facility.

Otti further urged citizens to patronise only licensed pharmacies and avoid unqualified practitioners, stressing that his government would not compromise health standards in the state.

In her remarks, the Health Authority Secretary for Umuahia South LGA, Mrs. Eucharia Igwe, commended Governor Otti for fulfilling his campaign promise to transform healthcare delivery in Abia State. She called on residents to cooperate with health workers and make effective use of the facility.

Also speaking, the traditional ruler of Eziama Ubakala, Eze Gabriel Okenwa, and the President General of the community, Elder Chikamnaele Eluwa, described the project as a “new dawn” for the community.

They praised the Governor for his commitment to grassroots development and quality healthcare, noting that the facility would save lives and improve access to medical care for residents who previously faced challenges while obtaining treatment.