NEWS
Abia Targets Malaria Reduction, Sets for Massive Mosquito Net Distribution as Gov. Otti Unveils New Health Projects
— Plans to Commission 25 Projects as Part of Events Commemorating Gov. Otti’s Third Anniversary in Office
The Abia State Government has intensified efforts toward improving healthcare delivery and reducing the burden of malaria across the state, with plans already concluded for the distribution of three million insecticide-treated mosquito nets in September 2026.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu revealed that the large-scale distribution of mosquito nets forms part of the state government’s broader malaria control strategy aimed at reducing infections and improving public health outcomes across Abia communities.
According to him, the state has already begun recording measurable progress in the fight against malaria, with prevalence figures witnessing a significant decline within one year.
Prince Kanu also disclosed that the state government plans to distribute three million insecticide-treated mosquito nets in September as part of its malaria control strategy, noting that prevalence in the state had declined from 16.5 per cent in 2024 to 11.5 per cent in 2025.
The Commissioner further disclosed that several healthcare facilities across the state have reached advanced stages of completion and are scheduled for commissioning as part of activities marking the third anniversary celebration of the current administration.
He noted that the Governor’s commitment to repositioning the healthcare sector has continued to manifest in the rehabilitation, equipping and digital transformation of health institutions across the state.
The Commissioner further disclosed that some health facilities across the State are set and would be commissioned during the state’s third anniversary celebration later this month.
“Governor Otti will commission Phase One of Obingwa General Hospital and Arochukwu General Hospital. In addition, 15 primary health centres and PHCs currently being equipped will be functionalised and commissioned.
“The state has also begun onboarding more PHCs onto the Digital Health Project, with four facilities set for inclusion in this phase,” Prince Kanu disclosed.
The planned commissioning of the hospitals and primary healthcare centres is expected to further expand access to quality and affordable healthcare services, especially for rural dwellers and underserved communities across Abia State.
Observers say the continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, digital medical systems and disease prevention programmes reflects the administration’s determination to strengthen the state’s health sector and improve the wellbeing of residents.
Prince Kanu also announced that the administration has lined up no fewer than 25 projects for commissioning as part of events commemorating Governor Otti’s third anniversary in office.
The projects cut across road infrastructure, healthcare and rural development initiatives designed to open up communities and stimulate economic activities within different parts of the state.
He further announced that Governor Otti would commission 25 projects as part of activities marking the administration’s third anniversary, including the Onu Imo Tower Road, Abiriba–Ohafia Road, Nunya–Isuikwuato Road and Ahieke-Umuafai road in Umuahia, among others.
The upcoming anniversary celebration is expected to showcase key achievements of the administration over the past three years, particularly in infrastructure renewal, healthcare delivery, and public sector reforms aimed at transforming Abia State.