Enugu Government Reaffirms Commitment to Healthcare and Education, Targets Quackery
The Enugu State Government has pledged to enhance healthcare and education, focusing on combating medical quackery and improving facilities. Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, announced plans for the Enugu International Hospital and 260 new primary healthcare centers.
Faith Orji 
The Enugu State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing the healthcare and education sectors, pledging to provide quality medical services and tackle medical quackery. Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by Secretary to the State Government Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made these declarations at the 49th Annual General Meeting and 48th Scientific Conference of the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria in Enugu on Friday.
Governor Mbah announced the formation of a special team to combat quackery in the state’s healthcare facilities, warning that individuals without proper qualifications would face legal action. He emphasized the state’s ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare and education, revealing plans for the establishment of the Enugu International Hospital at Rangers Avenue, Independence Layout. This facility is expected to enhance medical tourism and offer specialized services.
The governor also outlined the construction of 260 primary healthcare centers across the state’s electoral wards and the development of additional secondary and tertiary hospitals. To address the issue of healthcare professionals leaving the country, the state government will provide 100 percent CONMESS (Consolidated Medical Salary Structure) to medical staff.
Prof. Ikechukwu Obi, State Commissioner for Health, highlighted the role of ophthalmology in both government and private sectors. He noted the presence of ophthalmological services at Enugu's state and federal teaching hospitals and the upcoming addition of the Enugu International Hospital, which will offer comprehensive eye care.
Dr. Bade Ogundipe, former President of the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, discussed eye donation as a method for preventing blindness, urging individuals to consider donating their eyes to benefit visually impaired patients.
Prof. Nwosu, a resource consultant, addressed the high prevalence of glaucoma in the South East zone, attributing it to genetic factors. He advised the public on the importance of early detection and cautioned against using unorthodox treatments for eye problems.
The conference underscored the state’s commitment to improving healthcare services and addressing critical issues in ophthalmology.
