Gov Alex Otti has flagged off the construction of a maiden general hospital in Ohanku-Ndoki, Ukwa East LGA, to improve access to secondary healthcare in the area.

Speaking on Thursday at the occasion, Mr Otti said that the facility would be the first secondary health institution in the area and expected to address long-standing deficiencies in quality medical care for residents.

The governor said that the project underscored his administration’s resolve to ensure equitable and qualitative healthcare delivery across the state, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

He noted that upon completion, the hospital would cater for people in the community and environs, reduce the need for long-distance travel for treatment and enhance emergency medical response.

He commended the traditional ruler of the host community, Eze Chibuzor Chinyere, for donating the land for the project, describing the gesture as patriotic and development-oriented.

He assured the community that other requests presented to the state government would be reviewed and prioritised in line with available resources.

Mr Otti also said that the proposals on the establishment of a Free Trade Zone, revival of dormant assets and investment in agro-processing, especially palm oil production,
were already receiving attention. He said these proposals aligned with the state’s broader economic development strategy.

Mr Otti disclosed that his administration had earlier explored the possibility of establishing a seaport in Abia and had initiated discussions with Chinese partners. He noted that the engagement with the partners encountered technical constraints, including the 19.5 nautical miles to the high seas and dredging implications.

The governor, however, maintained that efforts in that regard were ongoing. Mr Otti further revealed that the government had commenced scoping works on Ohanku Road in Aba, which would lead into the community.

He added that the rehabilitation of Ohanku and Port Harcourt Road would require extensive sub-structural work due to challenging soil conditions.

(NAN)