The Abia State government has earmarked N16.6 billion for the upgrade of tertiary health institutions in the state, aiming to provide world-class facilities and offer top-tier training for doctors, nurses, and other medical trainees.
This initiative is part of the state’s plan to position Abia as a medical hub for sub-Saharan Africa, according to Governor Dr. Alex Otti.
Governor Otti shared these plans during the January edition of his monthly media parley, “Governor Otti Speaks to Abians,” held at the Government House in Umuahia.
He emphasized that the government’s commitment to transforming the healthcare sector is unwavering. The N16.6 billion allocation will not only upgrade schools such as the Schools of Midwifery, Nursing, and the College of Health Sciences and Management Technology, but also benefit other healthcare training institutions across the state.
The governor noted that the upgrades are part of broader efforts to address the shortage of trained medical professionals, enhance the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare, and ensure that all residents benefit from improved services. Otti assured that his administration will continue to prioritize healthcare, with the substantial investment reflected in the current year’s budget.
Further outlining the state’s healthcare improvements, Governor Otti revealed that over N10 billion has been allocated for the construction and renovation of 200 Primary Healthcare Centres across Abia. He highlighted that five of these centers in the Abia Central Senatorial district have been completed and are ready for commissioning.
Regarding the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, the governor stated that the institution has been fully restored to operational status, with its accreditation reinstated. Otti described ABSUTH as one of the state’s finest healthcare institutions, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery across the state.
His word, “The Regulatory Authorities have also increased the number of admissions into the University’s medical Programmes.
“We’re looking forward to the possibility of further extension of service age for teachers if the need arises”, he assured.
