Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ebonyi, has promised to improve healthcare delivery and medical education if elected governor in 2027.
Odii, represented by Mr Moses Idika, PDP’s National Ex-officio, made the promise on Friday while addressing the Ebonyi State University Medical Students’ Association (EBSUMSA) Homecoming and Reunion Colloquium in Abakaliki.
The event marked the first alumni homecoming of the university’s medical students since the establishment of Ebonyi State University (EBSU) 35 years ago.
The colloquium was organised by EBSUMSA with the theme: “Healing Through the Decades: 35 Years of Care”.
Odii said his administration would prioritise investment in medical education, healthcare infrastructure, research and the welfare of healthcare workers to strengthen the state’s healthcare system.
He said he would work towards transforming EBSU into a centre of excellence in education, research, innovation and professional development.
The PDP candidate pledged to strengthen primary healthcare centres, general hospitals and the EBSU Teaching Hospital, stressing that effective healthcare delivery required functional referral systems and well-equipped facilities at all levels.
He also promised to pursue scholarships and bursaries for eligible medical students of Ebonyi origin, improve healthcare workers’ welfare, promote digital health services and expand health insurance coverage.
Odii said his administration would attract public-private partnerships to develop specialist medical facilities and modern diagnostic centres, adding that the measures would help retain qualified medical professionals and improve access to affordable healthcare.
He said his broader development agenda would focus on security, agriculture, environmental protection, basic education, infrastructure and the sustainable development of solid mineral resources.
The PDP candidate congratulated the College of Medicine on its 35-year journey and urged medical students and alumni to contribute to healthcare development.
Earlier, Dr Nancy Nwite, President of EBSUMSA, described the homecoming as remarkable, saying it provided an opportunity for medical graduates of EBSU to reconnect and celebrate their achievements.
Nwite said the association remained committed to supporting government policies and partnering with relevant stakeholders to promote healthcare development in Ebonyi and Nigeria.
She urged current students and alumni to sustain the institution’s achievements and contribute to improving healthcare delivery.
