The Ebonyi State government has raised the monthly salary of newly hired medical doctors working in primary healthcare centres across the state to N500,000.
This change was announced by Governor Francis Nwifuru during an event marking the start of new health initiatives, including the launch of a drug revolving fund and the distribution of medical equipment to general hospitals.
The governor explained that the state has invested more than N10 billion to improve healthcare services by upgrading facilities, purchasing modern equipment, and increasing the number of health workers.
To address shortages, the government recently recruited 195 new healthcare staff members, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists.
These professionals have been assigned to various general hospitals throughout Ebonyi State to boost medical service delivery.
The drug revolving fund aims to ensure that essential medicines remain available in all government hospitals.
This fund will operate in a way that allows it to replenish itself, making it sustainable over time.
This effort is expected to benefit rural communities by providing affordable access to quality drugs.
Along with medicines, the state government is supplying hospitals with important medical tools such as beds, mattresses, patient monitors, and drip stands.
These items are essential for hospitals to provide effective care.
The value of the medical equipment being provided is estimated at over one billion naira.
Governor Nwifuru also mentioned that the government is working with health institutions to train and retrain medical workers, helping them meet international standards.
He called on community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to help monitor these healthcare resources to prevent misuse.
Plans are also underway to establish specialist hospitals in the three senatorial zones of Ebonyi State.
These facilities will provide advanced medical services locally, reducing the need for patients to travel elsewhere for treatment.
The government is exploring partnerships to support healthcare funding and implement digital health systems to improve efficiency and access.
