Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has commended the Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital in Anambra for its exceptional efforts in providing free heart surgeries to over 117 patients.
Obi gave the commendation during his visit to the Hospital in Irefi Oraifite in Ekwusigo Local Government Area, emphasising the importance of health as a cornerstone for societal growth and development.
He praised the medical facility for its world-class standards and the dedication of its medical personnel in saving lives, especially through their free heart surgeries.
Speaking highly of the hospital’s founder, Sir Emeka Okwuosa, Obi urged other well-meaning individuals and organisations to follow suit and support such initiatives. He also emphasised the need for more facilities to cater to the healthcare needs of the population.
According to him, “I’m very impressed with what I saw today. I’ve said it severally, this kind of facility is what we need to replicate in other sectors by well meaning individuals.
“If we have the kind of doctors I saw here working as a team and saving lives, you can imagine what our country will look like.
“Health is a critical thing. I’ve always said it, health is the foundation of development. Once you have health and education, and you’re able to pull people out of poverty, you’re developing. That’s all required.
“Here we are seeing those voluntarily caring for people, especially the poor and indigent. I really appreciate the man behind the success stories, Sir Emeka Okwusa, for the great work and ask him to keep the flag flying.”
The Executive Director of the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation, Dr. Chidimma Okoye, revealed that the hospital had successfully conducted 117 open-heart surgeries in the past two years, including procedures for both adults and children.
She said the cost of the surgeries amounted to over $457 million.
Dr. Okoye highlighted the dedication of the foreign medical team who volunteer their time and expertise to perform the life-changing surgeries.
She also emphasised the need for continued support and collaboration to ensure the hospital’s operations remain uninterrupted and accessible to those in need.
