Ebonyi Gov. Nwifuru flags off distribution of medical equipment to general hospitals

By Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki 

The governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru on Monday flagged off the distribution of medical equipment to general hospitals in the state.

Nwifuru made this known during the flag off of health activation in readiness for the drug revolving fund and distribution of medical equipment to general hospitals held at the Akanu-Ibiam international conference centre Abakaliki.

He said: “It is with a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude to God Almighty that I stand before you today to officially flag off the Health Activation Program in readiness for the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) and to commence the distribution of essential medical equipment to our general hospitals across the 13 Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State

“This event is not just a ceremony—it is a declaration of our administration’s commitment to revitalizing the healthcare system of our dear state. It is a testament to our resolve to deliver on the health pillar of our People’s Charter of Needs. 

“For some time now , the health sector in Ebonyi has suffered from insufficient funding, inadequate personnel, and a lack of basic equipment. This narrative must change, and it must change now.

“Today, we are taking a bold step forward with the launch of the Drug Revolving Fund. This initiative will guarantee the continuous availability of essential drugs in all our general hospitals. The revolving nature of the fund ensures sustainability, transparency, and accountability. 

“It is a lifeline for our rural communities, who will now have access to quality medicines at affordable rates.Already, we have achieved over 60% delivery of essential drugs, and the process continues until full coverage is attained.

“urge our healthcare workers and facility managers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in managing these resources.

“On the distribution of Medical Equipment, our hospitals cannot function effectively without adequate tools. Therefore, we are distributing modern medical equipment, including hospital beds, mattresses, patient monitors, drip stands, and other critical consumables. 

“These are not for decoration—they are instruments of life-saving service.This investment, worth over one billion naira, marks a significant milestone in our journey to reposition Ebonyi’s health sector. In recognition of the human resource gaps, we have recruited 195 healthcare professionals—doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists. 

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“They are already posted to all our general hospitals to ensure optimal service delivery. We are also working with relevant institutions to train and retrain our health workforce, ensuring that they meet global best practices.

“Let me use this medium to call on our community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society to join us in monitoring and protecting these investments. Let the health facilities belong to the people.

“Ownership brings responsibility. Let me make it clear that accountability is not an option—it is a duty. Any form of mismanagement or diversion of public resources will be met with firm action. We have already shown that we will not condone negligence, as evidenced by recent decisions taken in the sector” he stated.

“Our vision is to establish specialist hospitals in each of the three senatorial zones to provide advanced healthcare services, reduce medical tourism, and save lives. We are also exploring partnerships for healthcare financing and digital health systems that will ensure efficiency and access” he stressed.