Chinazaekpere z Xhin
Hon. Emeka Obioma, the Chief Whip of the Abia State House of Assembly and Member representing Umuahia South State Constituency, has reaffirmed the commitment of the legislature to consolidate on the major strides recorded by Gov Alex Otti’s administration in the health sector.
Obioma made this known while reacting to Abia State’s emergence as the top-performing state in the South East at the 2025 Nigeria Governors’ Forum Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge. He described the achievement as a clear validation of Gov Otti’s people-centered approach to governance and a strong indication that the rebuilding of Abia’s healthcare system is yielding tangible results.
According to the lawmaker, the transformation of Primary Healthcare Centres across the state has significantly improved access to quality healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations in rural and semi-urban communities. He noted that the revival and upgrading of PHCs have restored public confidence in government-owned health facilities.
“Dr Alex Otti has laid a very solid foundation in the health sector, and our responsibility as lawmakers is to consolidate on these milestones to secure the health of our people,” Obioma said.
“This administration understands that healthcare is not a privilege but a right, especially for the elderly, women, and children who require consistent and affordable care.”
Hon. Obioma emphasized that maternal and child health outcomes are critical indicators of development, adding that the renewed focus on functional PHCs is already helping to reduce preventable deaths and improve early disease detection. He stressed that strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery remains the most effective way to achieve universal health coverage in Abia State.
“The care of our mothers, children, and the aged must remain at the center of health planning and implementation,” he stated.
“When primary healthcare works, it protects pregnant women, ensures safe deliveries, supports child immunization, and gives our elderly access to timely medical attention without unnecessary hardship.”
The Chief Whip further disclosed that the Abia State House of Assembly is ready to support policies, budgets, and legislation that will deepen healthcare reforms and ensure sustainability. He said that legislative backing is essential to expanding health infrastructure, improving staffing, and maintaining the ultra-modern standards now being introduced in many PHCs.
“We will continue to provide the legal and policy framework needed to sustain these gains,” Obioma added. “Healthcare development is not a one-off project; it requires consistency, proper oversight, and deliberate investment, and we are fully aligned with the Governor’s vision.”
He also commended health workers across the state for their dedication and resilience, noting that improved facilities must go hand in hand with motivation, training, and welfare for medical personnel to deliver optimal results.
As Abia positions itself to compete nationally in healthcare delivery and pursue the long-term goal of health tourism, Obioma expressed confidence that the synergy between the executive and legislature will ensure lasting progress. He reiterated that protecting the health of the people remains the ultimate measure of good governance.
“When a government prioritizes health, it secures the future of its people,” Obioma said. “With the structures already in place, Abia is firmly on the path to building a healthcare system that serves everyone, especially those who need it most.” in
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