The Abia State Government says it has fulfilled the United Nations' 15 percent benchmark for health sector budget allocation in this year's budget.
The Commissioner for Health, Enoch Uche made this announcement during the inauguration of the Eye Care Centre at Amachara General Hospital in Umuahia, the state capital, calling the achievement a groundbreaking milestone in the state's history.
Uche noted that the creation of the centre is part of the government's dedication to continuously upgrade the hospital, ensuring it delivers medical services at an international standard.
He stated that Governor Alex Otti prioritises health, emphasizing the government's demonstration of commitment to transforming the hospital to meet global standards.
Chimezie Okwuonu, Chief Medical Director of the state’s Specialist and Diagnostic Centre, stated that the Governor has provided all the essential resources needed to revamp the facility. "This support encompasses not only the recruitment of new staff but also their ongoing welfare, ensuring that the centre is fully equipped to deliver high-quality care."
He noted a consistent increase in patient numbers at the facility, highlighting the critical role of regular eye exams and adherence to medication in preventing further eye damage.
Betty Emeka-Obasi, the Eye Health Management Bureau administrator and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, remarked that the centre is among the leading facilities in the country.
She assured that there is a strong commitment to addressing eye care challenges, especially the significant rates of preventable blindness and visual impairment in the state.
Acording to her, the goal is to ensure that every resident has access to the resources and care needed to achieve and maintain optimal eye health.
"We are committed to developing a comprehensive eye care system in the state by implementing a diverse range of initiatives,” she said.
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Recall that the Abia State Government through the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu announced that plans are underway to renovate and retrofit 200 existing primary health centres across the state before the end of the year.
He stated that the projects, set to be carried out by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Abia State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, have a 100-day completion timeline beginning in September.
