BY: EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA, ENUGU.

Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, has eulogized the World Bank for implementing projects that have a direct impact on the lives of the citizenry, particularly in the healthcare delivery system.

The governor also assured the bank of the state’s commitment to sustaining the Impact of the healthcare sector.

This was made known through a statement signed by Monday Uzor, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

The governor gave the assurance while receiving the World Bank Mission Assessment Team on Impact Projects at his office in Abakaliki.

Describing the intervention as significant, the governor said the programme aligns with his administration’s People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.

He said, “This is the first time the World Bank is doing a project we are celebrating, not only benefiting. The impact of this project is being seen. It is in line with what our people want,” he stated.

Nwifuru stated that his administration prioritises programmes that deliver tangible benefits to citizens, adding that Ebonyi would continue to partner with development organisations offering people-focused initiatives.

Highlighting developments in the state’s health sector, the governor stated that Ebonyi now ranks among the states with functional medical facilities, citing investments in infrastructure and equipment.

“We have built staff quarters, undertaken landscaping, and built a conducive environment for the people. Our MRI machines, CT Scan, and others are fully functional,” he said.

Nwifuru reiterated the state’s resolve to sustain the World Bank-supported programme, assuring the delegation of continued collaboration.

“We are not only going to complement your efforts, but we are also going to exceed your expectations. We have seen the benefit, we have seen the need for the project and we will sustain it”.

Speaking, the leader of the World Bank delegation, Onoriode Ezire, commended the administration’s strides in healthcare delivery.

“We want to extend our appreciation to you. We thank you for delivering the CT Scan, MRI machines, recruiting 328 workers, and ensuring the healthcare system is moving smoothly”.

The team noted that the visit formed part of efforts to assess implementation progress and explore sustainability measures for the project.