The Enugu State Government has said the adoption of science-based policies and data-driven strategies has significantly improved healthcare delivery and outcomes across the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Professor George Ugwu, made this known during a press briefing to commemorate World Health Day 2026, observed globally on April 7 under the theme “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” an initiative led by the World Health Organization.
Ugwu said the state has recorded measurable progress through targeted investments in disease surveillance, laboratory systems, and emergency preparedness, aligned with national frameworks of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and global best practices.
According to him, the administration of Governor Peter Mbah has prioritised science-driven governance in the health sector, resulting in improved capacity to detect and respond to disease outbreaks.
He noted that ongoing efforts to revitalise primary healthcare include plans to establish 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres and seven Type-3 facilities, aimed at expanding access and advancing Universal Health Coverage across the state.
The commissioner added that Enugu is also strengthening routine immunisation, reducing maternal and child mortality, and deploying digital health systems that rely on data and evidence for better decision-making.
Ugwu acknowledged the support of international partners and non-governmental organisations, particularly the World Health Organization, which is marking its 78th anniversary, for providing technical and financial assistance to state health programmes.
Despite the progress, he admitted that challenges remain, including workforce shortages, infrastructure gaps, funding constraints, and increasing demand for quality healthcare services.
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He stressed that these issues require a coordinated, multi-sectoral response, noting that the state is adopting a “One Health” approach that integrates efforts across human health, agriculture, and environmental sectors to improve overall outcomes.
Ugwu said the state’s health strategy is anchored on key priorities such as universal health coverage, resilient health systems, workforce development, and sustainable state ownership.
Activities to mark World Health Day in Enugu include a roadshow within the metropolis and a two-day medical outreach for civil servants organised by the state Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organization.
