RismadarVoice Reporters
January 19, 2026
The Abia State Government has employed 649 medical personnel under its 2025 health workers recruitment exercise, as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s healthcare system.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday in Umuahia while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting prsided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu explained that the recruitment aligns with the administration’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare services across the state.
According to him, the 649 health workers employed so far are part of the 771 medical personnel approved for recruitment, adding that the remaining vacancies would be filled shortly.
“Out of this number, 432 are nurses, who have been posted to primary healthcare centres across the state, which are currently being equipped and made fully functional,” he said.
The commissioner revealed that some of the newly recruited health workers had opportunities to work overseas but chose to remain in Abia, citing confidence in the government’s leadership and ongoing reforms in the health sector.
He further disclosed that a neurosurgeon with a rare specialty was among those employed under the recruitment exercise.
“Even after the shortfall is addressed to bring the number to 771, the Ministry of Health is still open to employing more medical personnel,” Kanu added.
On housing, the commissioner that the Ministry of Housing would soon flag off the construction of a Civil Service Commission Pocket Layout Estate in Umuahia. He said the project is aimed at providing quality and affordable housing for Abia residents, with approvals granted to ensure strict adherence to quality standards.
Kanu also disclosed that the ministry is in advanced discussions with private developers under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement for the development of additional housing estates at Mbaisi and Mbarakuma Ubakala, Umuahia.
Speaking on transportation, he said temporary charging stations had been installed to support the operation of electric buses currently providing free commercial transport services in the state. He added that the charging infrastructure would be expanded as additional stations arrive.
He further revealed that a 2MVA–33/10.415kV electricity distribution substation had been installed at the Umuahia Bus Terminal to ensure uninterrupted operation of the electric buses.
On power regulation, Kanu announced that the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority would issue an order before the end of January to regularise electricity activities in the state, following the transfer of regulatory authority to the agency.
According to him, the order would enhance consumer protection, service delivery, and ensure faster resolution of complaints.
The commissioner also revealed that the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) would soon commence enforcement of directives on the removal of illegal attachments to buildings, warning landlords to comply or face sanctions.
He added that illegal parking of commercial vehicles on streets within Umuahia had been prohibited, noting that defaulters risk having their vehicles impounded.
