An Anambra State industrialist based in Lagos, Dr Ezekiel Ibeh, on Monday donated N100 million to support his community’s efforts to build a hospital and a nursing school in Ihiala.

Mr Ibe, who described his support as part of his commitment to the community development and human capital empowerment, said “wealth finds its true value only when it is used to uplift others.”

He disclosed that Ihiala people had organised a fundraising event under the name Ihiala Unity Forum to raise N1.5 billion for the establishment the facilities.

Mr Ibeh said that one of his subsidiaries, a foremost roofing and construction company, would undertake the full roofing of the hospital and nursing school buildings upon completion of the structural phase.

He explained that his motivation was driven by a sense of social responsibility and gratitude to God for divine grace and success and urged every eligible adult of the community to participate in the projects.

According to him, giving back to society, especially in the area of health and education, remains one of the noblest ways to impact lives and foster sustainable development.

He expressed optimism that the projects, when completed, would provide affordable healthcare services to residents and create a platform for training young healthcare professionals within Ihiala and beyond.

Mr Ibeh said that the donation is open to every indigene of Ihiala community and called on those yet to support to so do and commended other contributors for their generosity.

He said that the initiative was conceived to address the long-standing absence of a well-equipped healthcare facility and nursing training centre in the area.

He stated, “We observed that Ihiala had suffered years of developmental setbacks due to insecurity, which affected our agricultural produce and lead to economic hardship.

Due to the restoration of peace in the community under Governor Charles Soludo, we resolved to cash in on rebuilding basic infrastructure to promote the economy and social activities. The fundraising ceremony organised in Lagos is not enough. We have well to do people based in Awka, Onitsha, Aba, Enugu so we call on all to contribute to the projects.’’

Mr Ibe said that though dignitaries, philanthropists, professionals, and community leaders had pledged their individual and collective support toward the realisation of the community noble dream, it was good for all to participate.

He said that they had unveiled the hospital and nursing school prototype, and called on all wealthy individuals, professionals, youths and various organisations to be committed to the community’s growth.

Mr Ibe said that notable personalities who had responded were President of De Imperial Philanthropic Family, Darlington Nwabunike, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) senatorial candidate for Anambra South, Donald Amamgbo and Dr Stanley Obodoagwu.

He added, “This is our renewed call to unity and service, we are rekindling the collective resolve of Ihiala indigenes to invest in projects that directly improve our lives. We need to secure a healthier and more educated populace for the community to grow.’’

(NAN)