Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has approved the immediate construction of 55 new Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across all 27 local government areas in the state, in a major push to expand healthcare access for residents.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, who said the new centres would complement existing PHCs that have already been renovated and equipped under the current administration.
“With these 55 new health centres now underway, we aim to bring essential healthcare services even closer to our people,” Uzodimma said.
“This aligns with our commitment to ensure that every Imo resident enjoys the good health they truly deserve.”
According to Ugochukwu, the initiative will strengthen healthcare infrastructure, especially in underserved communities, and improve access to preventive and primary care.
Notable sites for construction include Enyiogwugwu PHC and Beku PHC in Aboh Mbaise, and Nnarambia HC and Ihenweorie HC in Ahiazu Mbaise, among several others.
He also highlighted that Imo State currently boasts 25–30 health facilities per 100,000 people, exceeding the national average of 17 per 100,000.
Additionally, the state reportedly leads in childhood vaccination coverage, achieving over 98% immunization and protecting more than 169,000 children in 2020 alone.
The adviser added that the Imo Health Insurance Scheme has been instrumental in reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses, providing free emergency care and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
The scheme reportedly handled over 500 emergency referrals at no cost within a 10-month period.
In a related development, the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC) has also begun construction of eight additional PHCs in oil-producing communities.
ISOPADEC Managing Director, Chief Austin Onyedebelu, made the disclosure during a visit to Oguta Local Government Area, stating that the initiative is part of Governor Uzodimma’s broader healthcare reform.
“These aren’t just clinics, they are engines of community development,” said Onyedebelu.
“They will deliver maternal and child health services, routine immunizations, disease control, and emergency care.”
The ISOPADEC-funded PHCs will be located in: Oguta LGA: Ejemekwuru/Akabor and Egwe/Egbuoma, Ohaji/Egbema LGA: Ohuba and Egbema and Oru East LGA: Amiri 2, Amagu, Akatta 1 and Awo-Omamma 1.
He also noted that the project will create construction jobs as well as long-term employment opportunities for health professionals across the state.
