“Project Ekwueme”: A Symbol Of Abia’s Healthcare Renaissance Under Governor Otti 

EBERE UZOUKWA, PhD

In what stands today as the most ambitious and people-focused healthcare reform in Abia State’s history, Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, last year unveiled a bold and transformative initiative aimed at rescuing and revitalizing the state’s long-neglected health sector. That initiative—once mocked by critics and misrepresented by political detractors—has now evolved into a rallying symbol of renewal and progress across communities in Abia. Famously known as “Project Ekwueme,” it has become not just a name but a declaration of intent: to restore dignity, access, and efficiency to primary healthcare delivery in the state.

More than a slogan, Project Ekwueme has become the emblem of Abia’s primary healthcare rebirth. At its core lies a comprehensive, government-led plan to renovate, retrofit, and fully equip over 900 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) with modern facilities and essential medical equipment that meet global standards. The first phase targets 200 PHCs, out of which nearly 100 have already been completed with some delivering quality healthcare to both rural and urban populations.

In line with Governor Otti’s hallmark of prudent and efficient governance, the administration adopted a cost-effective and strategic commissioning model: selecting one upgraded PHC per LGA to represent all others completed in that local government. This innovative approach has maximized impact, minimized waste, and ensured state-wide visibility of progress.

But while the people rejoice, a handful of disgruntled political actors—many of whom presided over the very decay Governor Otti is now reversing—have tried, without success, to discredit the initiative. Their attempt to politicize a life-saving program has only fueled its popularity. Today, “Project Ekwueme” has been embraced by Ndi Abia as a badge of honour—proof of a government that listens, acts, and delivers.

Let the facts speak clearly: before Governor Otti’s intervention, many of Abia’s PHCs were glorified ruins—bereft of drugs, electricity, water, and medical personnel. Expectant mothers, children, and the elderly were abandoned in a dysfunctional system marred by decades of neglect. Today, under Dr. Otti’s leadership, these facilities are being brought back to life—equipped with solar power, boreholes, hospital beds, diagnostic tools, essential drugs, and most importantly, trained, motivated health workers.

Project Ekwueme is not an isolated victory. It is a flagship in a broader reform agenda that has redefined governance in Abia State. Salaries and pensions are now paid promptly. Roads and infrastructure are being rebuilt with urgency and quality. Education is undergoing bold reforms. Transparency and accountability have moved from empty buzzwords to living standards.

Under Governor Otti’s leadership, hope has returned. Trust in government has been restored. Abia is no longer a case study in missed potential—it is now a benchmark for responsible, visionary leadership in Nigeria. International organizations such as the WHO, UNICEF, and the World Bank now see Abia as a credible partner for sustainable development and effective program delivery.

Yes, the enemies of progress may continue to peddle cynicism. They may mock what they cannot comprehend. But Abians have responded with facts, with gratitude, and with faith. Project Ekwueme is not fiction. It is not propaganda. It is the new reality for mothers who now deliver safely and with dignity. It is the joy of communities that once despaired but now believe. It is the physical evidence of a new era—one driven by integrity, vision, and empathy.

Governor Alex Otti has not only etched his name in the annals of history; he has redefined the purpose of leadership. He has rekindled the social contract between the people and their government. His commitment to inclusive growth, social justice, and human capital development has placed Abia firmly on the path of irreversible progress.

Let the chant echo across every ward, every LGA, every street and village:
“Project Ekwueme” is not a joke.
It is not a catchphrase.
It is a revolution. And it is here to stay.

– Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.