To maintain and improve healthcare services in the state, the Rivers State Government has commissioned key equipment for better service delivery.
The inauguration exercise took place at the Primary Healthcare Management Board Headquarters in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
According to a report made available to newsmen, Owupele Benebo, the Head of Press to the Office of the Deputy Governor, asserted the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare services.
Commissioning the newly provided health equipment, Prof. Ngozi Odu, Rivers State Deputy Governor, highlighted that the aim of the commissioned infrastructure was to strengthen the foundation of the healthcare delivery system.
Speaking further, the Chairman of the Rivers State Task Force on Primary Health Care commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for prioritizing healthcare and focusing on impacting communities at large.
The Deputy Governor expressed gratitude to global partners, including WHO, UNICEF, and CHI, for their unwavering support, stating that their collaboration has significantly advanced the state’s healthcare goals.
She also commended the BOT, Executive Secretary, management, and staff of Primary Healthcare for their efforts in maintaining the state’s leadership in the South-South region.
Representing the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Comfort Mekele Igwe, emphasized that the newly commissioned equipment would improve vaccine storage, handling, and distribution, reinforcing the government’s commitment to an efficient and sustainable healthcare system.
The Chairman of the Primary Healthcare Management Board, Prof. Blessing Jaja, reaffirmed the board’s mandate to ensure quality healthcare for all residents. He praised the Deputy Governor, Commissioner for Health, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara for their continued support.
The commissioned items include a solar-powered walk-in cold room, two vaccine vial crushers, nine operational Hilux vehicles for local government areas, and ten motorcycles for disease surveillance in the LGAs.
Executive Secretary Prof. Kinikanwo Green highlighted that Primary Healthcare addresses about 80% of the population’s health needs, and the project would further strengthen the system.
The event was attended by representatives from WHO, UNICEF, CHI, the Mayor of Port Harcourt City, and ALGON Chairman Hon. Ezebunwo Ichemati, who delivered goodwill messages.
