Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru has increased the salary of medical doctors in the state from N150,000 to N500,000.
This is for newly employed medical doctors working in primary healthcare centres across the state.
He made this announcement during the flag-off of health activation, which also saw the launch of a Drug Revolving Fund and the distribution of medical equipment to general hospitals.
Nwifuru said his administration has invested over N10 billion to upgrade healthcare facilities, buy essential equipment, and improve manpower across Ebonyi.
“To fill the human resource gaps, we have recruited 195 healthcare professionals—doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and lab scientists—who are now posted to general hospitals to boost healthcare delivery,” he said.
The governor described the event as more than just a ceremony but a “bold step” towards revitalizing the state’s healthcare system and fulfilling the health part of his administration’s People’s Charter of Needs.
“For some time, Ebonyi’s health sector has suffered from poor funding, lack of staff, and insufficient equipment. This has to change — and it must change now.
“Today, we launch the Drug Revolving Fund, which will ensure essential drugs are always available in our hospitals. The fund’s revolving nature guarantees sustainability, transparency, and accountability.
“This is a lifeline for our rural communities, who will now access quality medicines at affordable prices. We have already delivered over 60% of essential drugs, and the process continues until full coverage is reached. I urge all healthcare workers and facility managers to maintain high integrity and professionalism in managing these resources.
“We are also distributing modern medical equipment like hospital beds, mattresses, patient monitors, drip stands, and other critical supplies.
“These aren’t just decorations — they are tools that save lives. This investment, worth over one billion naira, marks a major step in repositioning Ebonyi’s health sector. We are also partnering with institutions to train and retrain our health workers to meet global standards.
“I call on community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society to help monitor and protect these investments. Health facilities belong to the people, and ownership means responsibility. Accountability is not optional — it is a duty.
“Any mismanagement of public resources will be dealt with firmly, as we’ve shown by recent actions in the sector.
“Our vision includes building specialist hospitals in all three senatorial zones to provide advanced healthcare, reduce medical tourism, and save lives. We are also exploring partnerships for healthcare financing and digital health systems to improve efficiency and access.
“Today is a new dawn for health in Ebonyi. Let this flag-off be a call to action for health workers, communities, and every stakeholder. Together, we can build a system that delivers hope, healing, and health to all,” Governor Nwifuru stated.
