Governor Alex Otti of Abia State inaugurated the upgraded Alaukwu Ward Primary Health Centre in Umuagu on Wednesday. He launched the functionalisation phase of Project Ekwueme during the event in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The ceremony took place at Omoba.
This report from ALO360 details that the Abia State Governor Alex Otti sent Commissioner for Health Prof Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche to represent him. The governor explained that officials retrofitted primary healthcare centres across the state. He aimed to deliver quality services closer to residents.
Governor Highlights World-Class Equipment
“We are bringing healthcare to the people,” Governor Alex Otti stated. “If you enter this primary health centre, you will see equipment that is similar to what you have in London. If you enter the labour room, you will see the same facilities you would in any well-equipped teaching hospital. Not just any teaching hospital. I am talking about a well-equipped teaching hospital. That is what you will have there.”
Furthermore, Governor Alex Otti noted that his administration kept a 15 percent budgetary allocation for the health sector. He described this figure as full compliance with the United Nations benchmark. In addition, the governor announced plans to deploy one doctor to each of the 17 local government areas. These doctors will oversee primary healthcare centres.
Governor Urges Community Protection
Moreover, Governor Alex Otti called on residents to take ownership of the facilities. He urged them to protect the centres from vandalism so the upgrades last.
Statewide Rollout Gains Momentum
The project forms part of a statewide rollout that started in 2025. Under Project Ekwueme, officials retrofitted and equipped centres in all 17 local government areas. This inauguration marked the start of full operations at the Alaukwu Ward centre.
Local Leaders Praise the Initiative
Isiala Ngwa South State Constituency Member Dennis Chinwendu praised the initiative. He assured that constituents would safeguard the new facility.
Deputy Mayor Vivian Obilor, who represented the mayor of Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, applauded the renovation. She encouraged residents to use the centre regularly.
Health Administration Secretary for Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area Nkechi Chima advised people to avoid unqualified practitioners. She directed them to patronise the upgraded facilities instead.
