The Federal Government has taken a significant step toward improving access to specialist healthcare services with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Okigwe, Imo State.
The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Kunle Salako, signed the MoU in Owerri on behalf of the Federal Government, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to decentralise advanced medical services and reduce outbound medical tourism.
Dr. Salako stated that the initiative underscores the administration’s broader agenda to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system by expanding infrastructure, improving human resources for health, and enhancing healthcare financing to ensure better outcomes for citizens.
He noted that the establishment of FMC Okigwe would not only bring specialist healthcare closer to the people of Imo State and surrounding regions but also reduce the burden of seeking treatment abroad.
READ ALSO: FG, UAE Deepen Partnership on Irrigation to Boost Food Security
FG, NESG Strengthen Water, Sanitation Partnership to Boost Food Security
The Minister commended the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for supporting the initiative by ceding the General Hospital, Okigwe, to the Federal Government, describing the move as a demonstration of effective sub-national collaboration under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The new medical centre is expected to boost healthcare delivery, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall goal of achieving universal health coverage in Nigeria.
About The Author
