By Charles Igwe
Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has announced a significant increase in the monthly allowances of newly recruited medical doctors serving in the state’s general hospitals—from N150,000 to a minimum of N500,000.
The Governor made this known during the official launch of a health activation programme, which featured the rollout of a Drug Revolving Fund and the distribution of essential medical equipment to public hospitals across the state.
Describing the event as a bold step toward revitalizing the state’s healthcare system, Governor Nwifuru disclosed that his administration has approved over N10 billion for comprehensive upgrades of health infrastructure, medical tools, and personnel development.
“This is more than a flag-off. It is a firm declaration of our resolve to rebuild and reposition the health sector of Ebonyi State,” he said. “For far too long, our health institutions have suffered from underfunding, staff shortages, and inadequate facilities. That era must end—starting now.”
As part of efforts to close these gaps, the state government has employed 195 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists, all of whom have been deployed to general hospitals to improve service delivery.
A central feature of the programme is the launch of the Drug Revolving Fund, designed to ensure the steady availability of essential medicines at affordable prices, especially for underserved rural communities. “The revolving nature of the fund guarantees sustainability, transparency, and accountability,” the Governor noted, revealing that over 60% of essential drug deliveries have already been achieved.
In addition to medicines, the Governor unveiled a consignment of medical equipment worth over N1 billion, which includes hospital beds, patient monitors, drip stands, and other life-saving consumables. “These are not ceremonial items. They are practical tools meant to save lives and restore dignity to healthcare delivery in our state,” he emphasized.
Governor Nwifuru also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organizations to help enforce accountability in the management of health resources. “Every kobo spent must be accounted for. Mismanagement or diversion of public health resources will attract strict sanctions,” he warned.
Looking ahead, the Governor disclosed plans to establish specialist hospitals in each of the three senatorial zones of Ebonyi to reduce reliance on medical treatment outside the state. He further hinted at ongoing discussions with development partners to explore healthcare financing models and implement digital systems aimed at boosting service efficiency.
“Today marks a new dawn for healthcare in Ebonyi State,” Nwifuru declared. “Let this occasion serve as a rallying cry to all stakeholders—together, we can build a system that delivers not just services, but hope, healing, and a healthier future for all.”
