ABIA GOVERNMENT BEGINS SECOND PHASE OF PRIMARY HEALTHCARE REVITALISATION WITH IKPUTU PHC

The Abia State Government has commenced the second phase of the functionalisation of renovated and equipped Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the state, starting with the Ikputu PHC in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, marking it as the 52nd functionalised health facility.

This brings the total number of functional PHCs in the state to 102, with plans underway to complete and equip the remaining 98 centres before the end of the year.

Speaking during the commissioning of the Ikputu–Amano Nsulu Health Centre on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to eliminate avoidable maternal and child health challenges in Abia.

Professor Uche praised Governor Alex Otti for his visionary and transformative leadership, noting that Abia State has witnessed remarkable progress across various sectors in just over two years of his administration.

He recalled that prior to Governor Otti’s emergence, Abia lagged behind in healthcare delivery, ranking 36th out of 36 states in Nigeria. However, within two years, the state has risen significantly through the rehabilitation and functionalisation of over 200 PHCs across the state.

According to him, “Hospitals are not just buildings, they must be equipped and staffed to effectively serve the people. What we now have in our primary health centres rivals what you would find in general hospitals in other states.”

The Commissioner disclosed that 52 newly revitalised PHCs, including the Ikputu–Amano Nsulu facility, are now fully equipped with modern medical tools and staffed with qualified personnel as part of the ongoing healthcare reform initiative.

He also urged the host community to safeguard the facility, noting that the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities would soon install solar energy systems at the centre, while plans are in place to fence the compound for added security.

In his remarks, the Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Mr. Innocent Uruakpa, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Otti for his unwavering commitment to healthcare development, describing him as a “health-friendly governor” who keeps his promises.

Also speaking, the Health Authority Secretary of Isiala Ngwa North, Mrs. Charity Agwu, and the Supervisory Councillor for Health, Mrs. Nkechi Chibueze, lauded the Governor’s dedication to transforming healthcare delivery in the state. They noted that the Ikputu–Amano Nsulu Health Centre, which previously operated from a dilapidated building, now stands as a fully functional and well-equipped facility that will significantly improve access to quality healthcare for residents.

They further commended Governor Otti for recently approving the employment of over 700 new healthcare professionals across the state, describing the move as a timely step toward addressing manpower shortages and ensuring optimal use of the newly upgraded facilities.

Also present at the event were the Councillor representing Umunna Nsulu Ward, Hon. Victor Nwakanma, and other local government officials.