Governor Alex Otti lays foundation for first Ukwa East General Hospital, boosting healthcare access and infrastructure in Abia State.
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has officially performed the foundation-laying ceremony for the first-ever General Hospital in Ukwa East Local Government Area. The landmark event took place in Ohanku, Ndoki, marking a historic milestone in the area’s healthcare development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Otti described the hospital project as a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to expand quality healthcare services to every part of Abia State. He emphasized that access to affordable and efficient healthcare remains central to his government’s agenda, noting that both rural and urban communities must benefit from improved medical infrastructure.
According to the Governor, the Ukwa East General Hospital aligns with his broader vision of building a responsive and inclusive healthcare system capable of meeting modern demands. He stressed that healthcare delivery should not be limited by geography, assuring residents that the project will significantly enhance medical access in the region.
Governor Otti expressed appreciation to the traditional ruler and land donor, Eze Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, for providing a suitable parcel of land for the hospital. He also acknowledged the requests presented by the lawmaker representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency, Chris Nkwonta, assuring that they are under consideration.
The Governor further disclosed that work has already commenced from the endpoint of the reconstructed Ohanku Road, extending into the community.
Former Senate President, Adolphus Wabara, commended Governor Otti for prioritizing healthcare development beyond political affiliations. He described the project as a transformative initiative that will reduce maternal and infant mortality, strengthen emergency response systems, and restore public confidence in government-owned medical facilities.
Hon. Chris Nkwonta, while speaking at the event, described the groundbreaking as a historic achievement for Ukwa East, noting that it is the first General Hospital project in the area since Nigeria’s independence. He praised the Governor’s commitment to good governance and urged further attention to other development concerns, including the revitalization of Abia Palm and economic opportunities linked to the Azumini River.
The Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, revealed that the hospital project follows the successful renovation and retrofitting of 11 Primary Healthcare Centres across Ukwa East LGA.
He explained that the new General Hospital will be equipped to deliver world-class, affordable healthcare services to residents.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, described the ceremony as a defining moment for the Ndoki people. He stated that the hospital would serve not only as a medical facility but also as a catalyst for broader socio-economic development within the community.
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The event drew the attendance of key stakeholders, including former Deputy Governor Sir Ude Okochukwu, community leaders, women groups, and party supporters, highlighting widespread support for the administration’s healthcare expansion drive.
With the groundbreaking of the Ukwa East General Hospital, the Abia State Government reinforces its commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents across the state.