In what many have described as a major move to boost morale and improve services, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has announced a new monthly salary of N500,000 for newly employed medical doctors working in primary healthcare centres.
The announcement was made during the official launch of health activation in the state.
The event also included the inauguration of a Drug Revolving Fund and the distribution of essential medical equipment to general hospitals.
Moreover, it is expected to serve as a reward for the sacrifices health workers continue to make daily.
Governor Nwifuru stated, “To fill the human resource gaps, we have recruited 195 healthcare professionals doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and lab scientists who are now posted to general hospitals to boost healthcare delivery.”
Furthermore, the governor said that over N10 billion has been invested by his administration to upgrade health facilities, purchase medical tools, and enhance manpower in the state.
“This is more than a ceremony. It is a bold step toward revitalizing the state’s healthcare system and fulfilling the health part of our People’s Charter of Needs,” Nwifuru emphasized.
He noted that Ebonyi’s healthcare system had been affected by poor funding, insufficient equipment, and a lack of manpower.
However, with the current efforts, the story is changing.
“Today, we launch the Drug Revolving Fund, which will ensure essential drugs are always available in our hospitals.
The fund’s revolving nature guarantees sustainability, transparency, and accountability,” he said.
He added, “This is a lifeline for our rural communities, who will now access quality medicines at affordable prices.
We have already delivered over 60% of essential drugs, and the process continues until full coverage is reached.”
Moreover, Nwifuru used the opportunity to urge facility managers and workers to act with integrity.
“I urge all healthcare workers and facility managers to maintain high integrity and professionalism in managing these resources.”
Modern tools like hospital beds, patient monitors, mattresses, and drip stands were distributed.
According to him, these items are not just decoration but “tools that save lives.”
He revealed, “This investment, worth over one billion naira, marks a major step in repositioning Ebonyi’s health sector.
We are also partnering with institutions to train and retrain our health workers to meet global standards.”
Meanwhile, the governor appealed to stakeholders to play their part in protecting these resources.
“I call on community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society to help monitor and protect these investments,” he said.
He warned that any act of mismanagement would be punished.
“Any mismanagement of public resources will be dealt with firmly, as we’ve shown by recent actions in the sector.”
Looking ahead, the governor outlined plans for specialist hospitals across the state.
“Our vision includes building specialist hospitals in all three senatorial zones to provide advanced healthcare, reduce medical tourism, and save lives,” he stated.
He also mentioned upcoming innovations in digital health and funding partnerships to improve delivery.
“Today is a new dawn for health in Ebonyi. Let this flag-off be a call to action for health workers, communities, and every stakeholder.
Together, we can build a system that delivers hope, healing, and health to all,” he concluded.
However, with this bold move under the Ebonyi healthcare reform, Governor Nwifuru is clearly steering the state toward a healthier and more hopeful future for its citizens.
