The Imo state government has officially handed over the Okigwe General Hospital to the Federal Ministry of Health as it prepares to become a Federal Medical Centre.
The historical hospital has been assessed and reviewed by the Federal Ministry of Health. This is for the establishment and commencement of operations at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Okigwe.
The development follows a courtesy visit of a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Health to the Government house in Owerri. There, the health institution was officially handed over to the Federal Government.
The delegation from the Ministry of Health was welcomed by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma. The handover marks the end of a lengthy process of evaluation and vetting by the Federal Ministry of Health.
The development marks a significant uptick in the quality of health care in Okigwe and Imo State. The federal government is set to take over full management, procurement, and day-to-day running of the historic health institution.
Uzodimma, speaking at the meeting, revealed that the Imo State Government initiated and supervised a host of infrastructure upgrades. This is to ensure a smooth transition to Federal Medical Centre Status.
” The Imo State Government has completed the critical infrastructure required for the seamless takeover of the facility by the Federal Government. Our goal is to improve access to quality healthcare and ensure that the people of Okigwe and neighbouring communities benefit from specialized medical services.” Uzodimma said
Okigwe Hospital Transition Highlights Effective Healthcare Initiatives
The Imo governor added that the transfer of Okigwe General Hospital reflects his commitment to improving healthcare in Imo State. This will be done through strategic collaboration with the right people and agencies.
The delegates from the Federal Medical Centre thanked the Governor for making the transition a smooth one with adequate preparation
“The readiness of the facility will enable the Federal Medical Centre to commence operations without delay, bringing improved healthcare services closer to the people,” a member of the delegation stated.
There are reportedly 24 Federal Medical Centres in Nigeria, with most located in the capitals of their respective states. The Federal Medical Centre, Okigwe, would become the latest in Nigeria when the process is complete.
