Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called on communities across the state to take ownership and ensure maximum protection of primary healthcare centres PHCs in their localities.
Governor Otti gave the charge during the functionalisation of the Atan Abam Health Centre in Arochukwu Local Government Area. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, said the health facility, located in his hometown, would go a long way in addressing the health needs of the people.
He highlighted ongoing development efforts across the state, including the completion of the Ngbori Bridge, and assured that Atan Abam Primary School would soon be renovated and fenced. Commending the Commissioner for Health, Professor Ogbonnaya Enock Uche, and his team for their efforts, the SSG urged the people of Abam to stand behind the Governor in appreciation.
In his remarks, Professor Uche disclosed that Atan Abam PHC is one of 14 centres in Arochukwu LGA, noting that the state government is currently retrofitting 100 PHCs, with plans to upgrade another 100. He emphasized that Governor Otti is determined to reduce preventable deaths, equipping PHCs with facilities such as ultrasound machines, oxygen supply, and scanning devices. He cautioned against reliance on unqualified traditional medicine practitioners, urging expectant mothers to prioritize antenatal care.
Stakeholders at the event, including the Councillor representing Ovukwu Ward, Ikeogu Ukpabi; Chief Okoro Uko; and the Health Authority Secretary of Arochukwu LGA, Mrs. Peace Okorie, described Governor Otti as a “God-sent leader.” They praised the new facility as a symbol of hope, with Mrs. Okorie noting that many hospitals lack the quality of equipment now available in Atan Abam.
The Ovukwu Ward Councillor further pledged that the community would repay the Governor’s developmental strides with massive electoral support at the right time.
The event was attended by the State Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Mrs. Victoria Emeuche, health stakeholders, traditional rulers, and other community leaders.
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