The Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC) has officially launched its free monthly distribution of essential drugs to health centers in the oil-rich communities in Ohaji/Egbema council area of Imo.
The benefiting communities’ health centres include Awarra/Ekwerede, Asaba, Umuagwo, Obitti, Obile, and Mgbirichi.
This move, aimed at improving healthcare delivery in the region, has been met with much excitement and accolades from the local population.
Flagging off the distribution exercise, on Friday, the Acting Managing Director (MD) of ISOPADEC, Princess Ijeoma Joy Ikegwuruka, said that the move is aimed at improving healthcare delivery in the oil-rich region.
She said that the Commission is set to provide essential medications to health centers in the catchment area on a regular basis adding that this initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the healthcare challenges faced by oil-producing communities, which often lack adequate access to basic medical supplies and services.
Princess Ikegwuruka emphasized that the distribution of essential drugs aligns with the commitment of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration to improve healthcare in the state.
She reiterated the governor’s determination to ensure that the healthcare needs of communities in oil-producing areas, which contribute significantly to the state’s economy, are not neglected.
She said: “The government of Governor Hope Uzodimma is deeply committed to advancing the healthcare sector and ensuring that every citizen, particularly those in the oil-bearing communities, has access to quality medical services”.
The MD said that this monthly drug distribution is just one of the many ways ISOPADEC is supporting the health sector.
According to her, the distribution program covers a wide range of essential medicines, including pain relievers, antibiotics, and anti-malarial drugs, which will be supplied to local health centers for free.
She said that such effort is designed to address the shortage of essential medicines and reduce the burden on local residents who often face financial challenges in accessing healthcare.
She said: “Local health workers and community leaders have expressed their gratitude for the initiative, describing it as a much-needed intervention in an area where healthcare services have long been inadequate.
The MD said that the distribution of essential drugs is part of a broader commitment by ISOPADEC to enhance the living standards of people in the oil-producing areas of Imo State adding that with the regular distribution of medications and the implementation of other health-related programs, ISOPADEC aims to alleviate the healthcare disparities faced by these communities, ensuring that they receive the support they deserve.
She stated the need for plans to expand its scope, including the provision of medical outreach programs, mobile clinics, and further infrastructural development for local health centers. The goal is to make quality healthcare accessible to all, irrespective of geographical location or socio-economic status.
She said: “the free monthly distribution of essential drugs by ISOPADEC marks a pivotal moment in the health and well-being of the people in the oil-producing communities of Imo State. With the unwavering support of Governor Uzodimma’s administration, this initiative is set to make a lasting impact, ensuring that the health needs of the people are met while contributing to the overall development of the region”.
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