Abia State Deputy Governor, Chief Ikechukwu Emetu, has said that the state’s healthcare sector is recording significant progress through improved immunization coverage, renovation of health facilities, increased utilisation of healthcare services, and stronger community engagement.
Speaking during the 2026 Second Quarter Task Force Meeting on Primary Health Care (PHC), Emetu attributed the achievements to the collective efforts of government agencies, development partners, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders in the health sector.
He, however, identified challenges such as gaps in outreach services, staff absenteeism, equipment vandalism, delays in diagnostic services, and inadequate community ownership of health facilities, urging stakeholders to remain committed to addressing them.
According to the Deputy Governor, the ultimate goal is to ensure that every resident of Abia State has access to quality, affordable, and timely primary healthcare services.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Abia State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Kalu Ulu Kalu, said the quarterly meeting provided an opportunity to review progress, address challenges, and develop strategies for improved healthcare delivery across the state.
Development partners, including representatives of UNICEF and other health organizations, commended the state government’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare and pledged continued support in areas such as maternal and child health, nutrition, family planning, disease prevention, and healthcare logistics management.
The meeting brought together government officials, traditional and religious leaders, local government representatives, and key stakeholders in the health sector.
