Otti Lays Foundation for First General Hospital in Ukwa East, Pledges Expanded Healthcare Access

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has laid the foundation stone for the first-ever General Hospital in Ukwa East Local Government Area, assuring residents of improved access to secondary healthcare services in the oil-producing area.

The project, located at Ohanku in Ndoki clan, is the first secondary healthcare facility to be established in the council area. When completed, the Ohanku General Hospital is expected to serve Ukwa East and adjoining communities, reduce long-distance travel for medical care, and enhance emergency response within the area.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Otti described the project as a fulfilment of his administration’s commitment to providing qualitative healthcare services across the State. He stated that the establishment of the hospital aligns with his vision of building a responsive and inclusive health system that meets the needs of rural and underserved communities.

The Governor commended the traditional ruler of the community, Apostle Chibuzo Chinyere, for donating the land for the hospital project, noting that the gesture would significantly advance healthcare delivery in the area. He also assured the monarch that requests for additional government interventions had been noted and would receive consideration.

Former member representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, highlighted the economic potential of the area and called for the development of a Free Trade Zone, revival of abandoned assets, and investment in agro-processing, particularly palm oil production. He also urged government intervention in addressing border issues between communities in Ukwa and neighbouring Akwa Ibom State.

Responding, Governor Otti disclosed that upon assumption of office in 2023, his administration initiated discussions with Chinese partners on the possibility of establishing a seaport in Abia State. However, he noted that technical challenges, including the 19.5 nautical mile distance to the high sea and dredging requirements, posed significant constraints.

He further revealed that work had commenced on the scoping of the Ohanku Road in Aba leading into the community, explaining that rehabilitation of Ohanku and Port Harcourt Road would require extensive foundational work due to poor soil conditions. He assured residents that their requests would be prioritised within available resources.

The Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Uche, stated that the project reflects the administration’s commitment to delivering affordable and quality healthcare services. He said the proposed hospital would be a fully functional, world-class facility serving the people of Ukwa East.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, described the project as life-saving and a turning point for the communities in Ukwa East, noting that it would reduce maternal and infant mortality and stimulate socio-economic development.

In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Ikwu Orie Autonomous Community, Eze Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, described the hospital as a response to years of neglect, noting that the community previously had no single hospital. He expressed optimism that the project would attract businesses and generate economic growth in the area.

The event was described by stakeholders as unprecedented since the return to democracy in 1999, marking a significant milestone in the development of Ukwa East Local Government Area.