By Our Correspondent

National News – Alex Otti has launched a five-day free medical outreach in Aba and Umuahia in collaboration with the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas, targeting improved healthcare delivery for residents.

The initiative, flagged off on Tuesday, aims to provide over 1,500 consultations and more than 100 surgeries, while also offering training and mentorship for local health professionals.

Speaking at the event, Otti expressed appreciation to ANPA for returning to Abia just two years after its last mission.

He noted that the programme addresses critical health challenges while strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers through hands-on experience and global knowledge exchange.

According to him, the mission aligns with his administration’s goal of improving social welfare and economic well-being through accessible and quality healthcare.

The governor further called for a long-term partnership with ANPA, directing the state’s Ministry of Health to establish a structured collaboration.

He revealed plans to integrate telemedicine and digital health services into the state’s healthcare system, allowing continuous support from diaspora medical experts beyond the outreach period.

Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch Uche, described the programme as a key component of Abia’s healthcare reform strategy, noting a steady rise in hospital patronage and improved health indicators across the state.

He urged residents to take advantage of the free services, especially vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children.

ANPA President, Dr. Cliff Eke, explained that the mission forms part of a broader diaspora-driven intervention to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system.

He added that the initiative goes beyond treatment, focusing on long-term system development through training, mentorship, and collaboration.

Health officials disclosed that similar missions have benefited over 15,000 residents in the past year, reinforcing efforts to expand equitable access to healthcare services across Abia State.