Enugu State’s push for inclusive healthcare has received a major boost, as the World Health Organization (WHO) formally partnered with Enugu East Local Government Area and honoured the council’s Executive Chairman, Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, for his outstanding contributions to advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The recognition was conferred during an official ceremony at the Enugu East Council Headquarters, Nkwo Nike, where the WHO South East Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, presented an Award of Recognition to Chairman Anike.
He commended Anike for enrolling 5,000 vulnerable residents into the Enugu State UHC scheme, a key initiative championed by Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
Dr. Igboekwu hailed Anike as the first Local Government Chairman in the state to earn such an honour, describing his leadership as visionary and inclusive.
He noted that 99% of Enugu East’s health initiatives align with WHO’s national health priorities and pledged the organization’s full support for the council’s efforts.
“This partnership will position Enugu East as a model for sustainable, community-driven health development in Nigeria,” Igboekwu stated.
Outlining the council’s strategic plan for the collaboration, Dr. Joy Udiji, Senior Special Assistant on Public Health, highlighted key focus areas: expanding access to quality primary healthcare, strengthening disease surveillance, scaling up immunization efforts, equipping five new Type 1 Primary Healthcare Centres, enhancing WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure, and establishing the proposed Metropolitan School of Health Technology to train frontline health workers.
In his response, Chairman Anike dedicated the award to Governor Mbah, noting that the state’s broader health reform agenda, particularly the plan to construct 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, provided the framework for their local initiatives.
“This award is a validation of the Governor’s vision and our collective resolve to bring that vision closer to the people,” Anike said. “Enugu East is committed to complementing state efforts and delivering results.”
The event attracted top dignitaries including Hon. Dr. Felix Nnanyelugo Nnamani, Commissioner for Water Resources; Prof. Bethrand Amaechi Ngwu, Chief Medical Director of ESUT Teaching Hospital; Hon. Engr. Kingsley Obi Anike, Deputy Chairman of Enugu East; Hon. Obumneme Eke, Leader of the Legislative Council; and Barr. Uche Mbaeke, Council Secretary.
