Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has promised to build a fully equipped hospital in Etche Local Government Area before the end of his administration.
The governor made the commitment while commissioning the reconstructed 12.1-kilometre Egwi-Afara-Mba Road in Etche.
Fubara said the proposed hospital would address the healthcare needs of residents in Etche and neighbouring Omuma Local Government Area, following appeals from community leaders for improved medical services.
He noted that his administration had already upgraded zonal hospitals in Bori, Ahoada, Omoku and Degema, but said Etche was yet to receive a similar level of attention.
“The only one that we have not done much is that of Etche. Let me promise you here and now that by the special grace of God, before we exit, there will be a standard hospital that can cater for the people of Etche,” Fubara said.
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The governor also assured residents that the state government would look into the request for the reconstruction of the Mba-Ndashi Road, which community members described as being in poor condition.
Fubara commended the Chairman of Etche Local Government Area, Boniface Njoku Chima, for his efforts in providing electricity and improving security in the area.
He stressed that government had a responsibility to provide basic amenities and protect the lives and property of citizens.
The governor also thanked traditional chiefs and residents of Etche for their warm welcome, despite the absence of the Onyishi of Etche, the paramount ruler of the kingdom.
Fubara urged residents to continue to maintain peace and obey the law, noting that development would be difficult to achieve in an environment of insecurity and conflict.
He said the completion of the road project and planned healthcare intervention were part of efforts to improve living conditions and stimulate development in the area.
