Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Monday inaugurated the over N300 million remodelled mission hospital in Ihe community, Awgu Local Government Area.
The hospital, originally established in 1976 by the Catholic Diocese of Enugu with support from the late Ihe Traditional Ruler, Dennis Nwachukwu, is now managed by the Catholic Diocese of Awgu. The remodelling was spearheaded by Ihe Development Initiative (IDI), a group comprising entrepreneurs, academics, and servicemen from the community.
Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, Governor Mbah lauded the IDI for aligning with the administration’s goal of improving rural healthcare access. “It is commendable and aligns with our policies to push the state’s poverty index to zero. This initiative has transformed healthcare delivery for Ihe and its environs,” he said.
Mbah also emphasized the importance of a strong partnership between the community and the Catholic Diocese of Awgu to ensure the hospital’s sustainability, stating, “Since it is a mission hospital, we will partner with them once they write officially to us.”
Dr. Madueke Ekoh, IDI President, explained that the hospital had been in a dilapidated state before their intervention. “It was a ghost area with leaky roofs, no water or toilet facilities, and no functional emergency units, wards, or equipment,” Ekoh said.
With funds totalling N345 million, IDI undertook significant renovations, including rebuilding the main building, refurbishing the general ward, purchasing new hospital beds and maternity equipment, and installing a solar-powered borehole and drainage system. They also introduced a 10KVA solar power system, renovated staff quarters, and landscaped the premises with asphalted pavements.
Ekoh announced plans to establish a Hospital Endowment Fund to sustain the hospital.
Most Rev. John Okoye, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Awgu, praised the initiative, expressing optimism about addressing staffing issues. He urged the community to patronise the hospital for improved healthcare services.
Air Commodore Chiemeka Ozoemena (Rtd), Chairman of the event, credited teamwork, generosity, and dedication for the project’s success.
The event included award presentations to community members and cash gifts to students excelling in their studies.
