Mrs Pauline Okoli, a registered midwife and nurse in charge of Manaria Osonwa Primary Health Centre (PHC), has urged residents of Obunagu-Amaikwo in Awka to make effective use of the health facility to promote healthy living.
Okoli made the call in an interview with reporters on Tuesday at Obunagu-Amaikwo in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
She said the health centre was built by an indigene of the community, Mr Onuora Osonwa, in memory of his late mother, Esther Osonwa, and was handed over to the Anambra State Government on April 29, 2025.
According to her, medical services available at the centre include primary healthcare, elderly care, immunization of children aged 0 to 59 months, antenatal care and delivery, postnatal care, laboratory services, treatment of minor ailments and injuries, family planning, and referrals.
Okoli expressed concern that residents of Obunagu-Amaikwo and surrounding communities were not fully utilizing the well-equipped facility, despite its proximity and range of services.
She revealed that only 15 deliveries had been recorded at the centre since it commenced operations in 2023.
“We have modern medical equipment, qualified personnel, and a friendly environment to promote healthy living, as well as a referral system when the need arises.
“I expected a higher level of patronage considering the population of the area. I therefore urge residents to take their health more seriously in 2026,” she said.
Okoli appealed to the state government to sustain its support for the facility, particularly in ensuring a constant supply of water and electricity.
She also commended the management of the Manaria Osonwa Foundation for its continued financial support of the health centre, despite having formally handed it over to the government, to ensure the provision of quality healthcare services.
