Abia Government Begins Functionalization Of Renovated Primary Health Centres

Abia State Government has commenced the second batch of functionalisation of renovated and equipped Primary Health (PHCs) in the state with the functionalosation of the Ikputu PHC in Isialangwa North LGA making it the 52nd functionalised PHC.

This brings the total number of functionalised PHCs to 102 as the remaining 98 PHCs would be fully renovated and equipped before the end of the year.

Speaking while functionalising the Ikputu – Amano Nsulu Health Centre on Tuesday, the Abia State Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, said Governor Otti would not tolerate pregnant women experiencing avoidable challenges during delivery.

He appreciated Governor Alex Otti for his transformative leadership, noting that Abia state has undergone remarkable progress across multiple sectors within two years and few months in office.

The Commissioner recalled that before now, Abia was a place people were ashamed to mention, but today, Abia citizens are proud to say that they are from Abia because of the transformational projects of Governor Otti.

Professor Uche said the Governor has not only revived the health sector but has also transformed education, infrastructure, and other areas making Abia a beacon of progress in Nigeria.

He noted that before Governor Otti’s administration, Abia ranked 36th out of 36 in healthcare delivery. However, within two years, the state has risen to the top through the rehabilitation and functionalisation of over 200 primary healthcare centers across Abia.

The Commissioner disclosed that 52 new health centers, including Ikputu Amano Nsulu, have been fully equipped with world-class facilities and qualified personnel as part of the second phase of the state’s healthcare revitalization initiative.

According to him, “Hospitals are not just buildings—they must have equipment and manpower to serve the people.

“What we now have in our primary health centers rivals what you find in general hospitals in other states,” Prof. Uche stated.

Professor Uche charged the community to protect the facility with jealous and promised that the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities would commence installation of solar power in the centre. He added that the health centre would also be fenced.

The mayor of Isialangwa North LGA, Mr Innocent Uruakpa said they are deeply thankful to Governor Otti who he described as a health-friendly Governor for keeping his promise.

In their speaches, the Health Authority Secretary, Isialangwa North Local Government, Mrs. Charity Agwu, the Supervisory Councillor for Health in the council, Mrs Nkechi Chibueze expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and commitment to healthcare development in the state.

They noted that the Ikputu Amano Nsulu Health Centre, formerly operating from a dilapidated structure, now stands as a fully renovated and well-equipped facility ready to serve the community.

They added that the project is a beacon of hope and progress for their people, adding that for months, health workers operated from a cramped apartment, but is now operational.

Mrs. Agwu and Mrs Nkechi also acknowledged the Governor’s recent approval to employ over 700 health professionals across the state, describing it as a timely intervention that would bridge the human resource gap in the sector and ensure optimal use of the newly supplied equipment.

The councillor for Umunna Nsulu, Victor Nwakanma among among other officials were present at the event.