Enugu State Allocates N24 Billion for 260 New Primary Healthcare Centres

The Enugu State Government has outlined a substantial financial commitment of N24 billion for the development of 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) throughout the state.

This expenditure was detailed by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government (SSG), Professor Chidiebere Onyia, during a recent appearance on Arise News TV's The Morning Show.

Professor Onyia stated that the project involves an investment of approximately N90 million per PHC, encompassing not only the construction but also the provision of essential equipment, solar power systems, laboratory facilities, accommodation for healthcare workers, and perimeter fencing.

He further elaborated that out of the 260 PHCs planned, 30 have already been completed, with an additional 230 nearing completion. The SSG also revealed that the governor has sanctioned an allocation of N4 billion specifically for the equipping of 100 of these centres.

According to Onyia, the full funding for the construction phase of all 260 PHCs has been disbursed, and the state is now transitioning to the second phase, which focuses on equipping these facilities.

The rollout of these Type-2 PHCs commenced following Governor Peter Mbah's assumption of office, with projects initiated across the state's 260 wards.

In a related development, President Bola Tinubu visited Enugu State on January 4, 2025, to inaugurate some of these completed PHCs, along with other infrastructure projects undertaken by the Mbah administration.

Public health experts have lauded the initiative, with Tanimola Akande, a professor of public health, telling PREMIUM TIMES that the new PHCs are expected to improve healthcare access, particularly for expectant mothers and children in rural communities, thereby enhancing the state's health indices.

Mr. Akande noted that the clinic facilities within the camps also require upgrades and modern equipment to cater to the increasing number of corps members and camp officials.