Otti calls for collaboration to strengthen healthcare system - Punch Newspapers

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti. Photo credit: File

The Abia State Government has called for sustained collaboration with Federal Tertiary Hospitals and other medical institutions to strengthen the state’s healthcare system, as well as advance the proposed Abia Medical City.

Speaking during the 115th quarterly meeting of the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Hospitals in Nigeria, the state governor, Alex Otti, emphasised that healthcare is a critical component of human development and economic growth.

Represented by the deputy governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, the governor emphasised that healthcare was allocated 15% of the state’s annual budget in 2026, adding that the governmrnt had recruited hundreds of healthcare professionals, as well as embarked on the rehabilitation of primary healthcare centres across the state through Project EQIUP and other interventions.

He maintained that the proposed Abia Medical City is envisaged as an integrated healthcare ecosystem incorporating specialised medical services, research, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, medical technology, and other allied services, calling for partnerships to realise the vision.

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, commended the administration for the significant progress in the healthcare sector, highlighting the growing cooperation between the state government and the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia.

The Chairman, Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria, as well as the Chief Medical Director, Usman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Prof. Sa’ad Ahmed, expressed his appreciation for the cooperation in the state health centre.

The Chief Medical Director, Federal Medical Centre Umuahia, Professor Azubuike Onyebuchi, disclosed that the government is constructing a twenty-room VIP ward at the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia.

Sunday Nwakanma is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over 25 years of professional experience in reporting. He is based in Abia State and has worked across local, regional, and national newspapers, covering a wide range of public affairs issues. Sunday’s work reflects extensive newsroom experience, multiple professional recognitions, and a strong commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.