Nwifuru Increases Doctors’ Allowance, Launches Over N10bn Health Sector Revamp

Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has announced a significant increase in the monthly allowances of newly employed medical doctors in the state’s general hospitals from N150,000 to a minimum of N500,000.

This was made during the flag-off of a comprehensive health activation programme which also included the launch of a Drug Revolving Fund and the distribution of modern medical equipment across general hospitals in the state.

Governor Nwifuru revealed that his administration has approved over N10 billion for the upgrading of health facilities, procurement of equipment, and strengthening of healthcare manpower.

“This event is not just a ceremony; it is a declaration of our administration’s commitment to revitalising the healthcare system of our dear state,” he said.

Acknowledging the longstanding challenges of underfunding, inadequate personnel, and poor infrastructure in the state’s health sector, Nwifuru stressed that “this narrative must change, and it must change now.”

As part of the reform, the state government has recruited 195 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists, who have been deployed to general hospitals to improve service delivery.

To ensure sustainable and affordable access to essential medicines, especially in rural areas, the Governor launched a Drug Revolving Fund designed to guarantee a continuous drug supply. He stated that over 60% delivery of essential drugs has already been achieved, with full coverage underway.

He also distributed hospital beds, mattresses, patient monitors, drip stands, and other life-saving consumables worth over one billion naira to health facilities across the state.

“These are not for decoration; they are instruments of life-saving service,” Nwifuru noted.

He called on community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to monitor health resource usage, warning that any mismanagement or diversion would be met with decisive action.

Governor Nwifuru disclosed plans to establish specialist hospitals in each of the state’s three senatorial zones to reduce medical tourism and improve local healthcare access. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to form strategic partnerships for healthcare financing and digital health systems.

“Today is a new dawn for health in Ebonyi. Let this flag-off be a call to action to all stakeholders. Working together will accelerate our vision to build a system that delivers hope, healing, and health to all,” the Governor concluded.

Source: TheWhisper