Abia’s Health Revival: Hiring More Professionals For The 35th Anniversary Celebration

The Abia State Government has declared its intention to increase the number of medical professionals working in the state’s Ministry of Health.

This was revealed on Monday while Okey Kanu, the state commissioner for information, briefed reporters on the results of this week’s State Executive Council meeting, which was chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

According to him, the new hiring phase would concentrate on hiring consultants, medical officers, and dental officers for both full-time and part-time positions.

He said, “In line with the ongoing reforms, the State Civil Service Commission will commence recruitment of more healthcare professionals tonight. At the last count, 742 medical personnel had been hired.

“This new phase will focus on medical officers, dental officers, consultants — both full-time and part-time. Interested candidates have been urged to apply.”

“The ranking and recognition by Philips Consulting serves as an independent validation of the impressive transformation recorded so far in the state’s health sector.”

Kanu added that the Ministry of Health had piloted a digital application, “CYTrack”, to identify and track high-risk and teenage pregnancies in order to reduce maternal and child mortality.

According to him, “The app has been used successfully to monitor such pregnancies up to delivery.

“The state has also recorded gains from the functionalization of Basic Health Centres. Data from July 2025 to June 2026 show that the first 50 functionalized PHCs accounted for over 20% of 1.067 million Out-Patient Department, OPD, visits and deliveries.

“Between July 27 and date, three additional PHCs were made functional, bringing the total to 151, up from 148. Another 25 equipped PHCs are scheduled for functionalization within the next three weeks.”

“To strengthen the scheme, the Abiriba Community Improvement Union, North America Charter, has committed to sponsoring over 1,000 indigent persons under the informal sector. The state government calls on other communities and groups to emulate the gesture.”

“The state recorded no outbreak of diseases of public health importance within the period. These include Ebola, Lassa fever, COVID-19, Diphtheria, Cholera, Mpox and Yellow Fever.”

“It promises to be a week-long celebration that will further give major impetus to the transformation journey of the Alex Otti-led administration.”

As Abia proudly celebrates its 35th anniversary, we reflect on the progress and achievements that have shaped the state into what it is today. This milestone signifies resilience, growth, and the bright future ahead. We extend our heartfelt wishes for a happy and memorable anniversary in advance, celebrating the spirit and prosperity of Abia State. Happy 35th Anniversary, Abia!