Otti Flags Off Maiden General Hospital Project in Ohanku-Ndoki

Umuahia, Abia State – Governor Alex Otti on Thursday officially flagged off the construction of the first general hospital in Ohanku-Ndoki, Ukwa East LGA, a project aimed at improving access to secondary healthcare in the area.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Otti described the facility as the first secondary health institution in the community, noting that it would address long-standing gaps in quality medical care for residents. He emphasized that the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to equitable and qualitative healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

“The hospital will serve the people of Ohanku-Ndoki and surrounding areas, reducing the need for long-distance travel for treatment and enhancing emergency medical response,” Otti said.

The governor commended the traditional ruler of the host community, Eze Chibuzor Chinyere, for donating the land for the project, describing the gesture as patriotic and development-oriented. He assured residents that other requests presented to the state government would be reviewed and prioritized according to available resources.

In addition to healthcare, Governor Otti addressed broader development plans for the area, including proposals for a Free Trade Zone, the revival of dormant assets, and investment in agro-processing, particularly palm oil production. He noted that these initiatives are in line with Abia State’s broader economic development strategy.

Otti also revealed that the state had previously explored the possibility of establishing a seaport, engaging with Chinese partners. While technical challenges such as the 19.5-nautical-mile distance to the high seas and dredging requirements stalled progress, he assured that efforts were ongoing.

On infrastructure, the governor disclosed that scoping works for Ohanku Road in Aba, which will lead into the community, have commenced. He added that the rehabilitation of Ohanku and Port Harcourt Road would require extensive sub-structural work due to challenging soil conditions.

The new hospital project is expected to significantly boost healthcare access and catalyze broader socio-economic development in Ohanku-Ndoki and its environs.