Gov. Otti Launches ANPA Medical Mission in Abia, Calls for Stronger Partnership

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially flagged off a five-day free medical outreach organised in collaboration with the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), taking place in Aba and Umuahia.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti expressed appreciation to ANPA for returning to Abia for the 2026 mission, just two years after their previous visit. He described the group as a dependable development partner, noting their role in easing healthcare challenges while also providing hands-on training and mentorship for local medical professionals.

He also acknowledged the support of volunteer ophthalmologists from across Nigeria, commending their contribution to addressing critical healthcare needs in the state.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare, Governor Otti stressed that his policies are focused on enhancing the wellbeing of citizens and driving economic growth. He emphasized that infrastructure development must align with efforts to improve quality of life.

The Governor called for a more structured and long-term partnership with ANPA, directing the Ministry of Health to begin discussions toward a formal collaboration. He highlighted plans to integrate ANPA’s expertise into areas such as telemedicine, remote consultations, and the state’s upcoming digital health services platform.

According to him, the ultimate goal is to improve health outcomes for all residents, especially vulnerable groups like pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children.

Also speaking, Hon. Boniface Isienyi, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee and representative of Ikwuano State Constituency, commended the Governor’s efforts in transforming the healthcare sector and creating a supportive environment for initiatives like the ANPA mission.

The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, described the outreach as a reflection of the government’s strategic reforms through global partnerships. He revealed that the mission aims to provide at least 1,500 medical consultations and over 100 free surgeries, urging residents to take advantage of the opportunity.

In his remarks, ANPA President, Dr. Cliff Eke, noted that this marks the first time the association is conducting back-to-back missions in Nigeria, attributing it to Governor Otti’s strong commitment to healthcare. He explained that ANPA’s efforts go beyond treatment, focusing on capacity building, knowledge exchange, and long-term system improvement through partnerships and telemedicine.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Medical Mission Committee and Director General of ABSACA, Dr. Uloaku Ukaegbu, thanked the Governor for his consistent support. She noted that similar missions in the past year have benefited over 15,000 residents and delivered more than 300 successful surgeries.

She added that the current mission also includes a youth-focused sexual and reproductive health programme scheduled to hold at Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic.

Meanwhile, the CEO of Quantus Medical Foundation, Dr. Nnenna Ihekorommadu, highlighted the upcoming Abia Healthcare Rebirth Initiative, aimed at promoting compassionate care, accountability, and excellence in healthcare delivery through training and value reorientation.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by key stakeholders in the healthcare sector, including top government officials.