Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has inaugurated a mission hospital in the Ihe community, Awgu Area Council, following a N300 million renovation. The hospital, originally established in 1976 by the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, was remodeled by the Ihe Development Initiative (IDI), a group comprising entrepreneurs, academics, and servicemen from the community.
Alignment with State Healthcare Objectives
Governor Mbah, represented by the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, emphasized that the renovation aligns with his administration’s goal to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas. He commended the community’s initiative, noting that it supports the state’s policy to reduce poverty and improve healthcare access.
Call for Sustainable Partnerships
The governor called for a stronger partnership between the community and the Catholic Diocese of Awgu to maintain the hospital’s improvements. He expressed willingness to collaborate with the diocese upon receiving an official request.
Community and Clergy Support
Bishop John Okoye of the Catholic Diocese of Awgu expressed gratitude for the community’s efforts in transforming the hospital, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in serving humanity. He also acknowledged the hospital’s staffing challenges and pledged to work with the community to address them.
Encouragement for Utilization
Air Commodore Chiemeka Ozoemena (Rtd), the event chairman, praised the collaborative effort in renovating the hospital and encouraged the community to utilize the facility for improved healthcare services.
This development underscores the commitment of both the Enugu State government and the Ihe community to enhance healthcare infrastructure and accessibility in the region.