By Isaac Mission
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has said the newly developed Enugu International Hospital is intended to provide advanced healthcare services to residents and patients from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
Mbah made the statement during a pre-commissioning inspection of the facility, which is expected to commence operations following its official launch.
According to the governor, the hospital has been fitted with modern medical equipment as well as sophisticated digital and electronic systems designed to support specialist healthcare delivery.
He said the investment would strengthen Enugu’s position as a potential destination for medical tourism while providing access to treatments that often compel Nigerians to seek healthcare outside the country.
Mbah expressed satisfaction with the standard of equipment installed at the hospital, adding that the facility could also encourage Nigerian medical professionals working abroad to return and contribute to the state’s healthcare system.
The governor disclosed that some medical practitioners with links to Enugu who are currently based overseas had already shown interest in working at the hospital.
Beyond healthcare delivery, Mbah said the facility would generate employment for doctors, nurses, medical specialists, technicians, graduates and other categories of workers, thereby contributing to economic activity in the state.
During the inspection, the governor visited several specialist sections of the hospital, including the Precision Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Unit, specialised operating theatres, intensive care units, advanced diagnostic and imaging facilities, and renal and dialysis centres.
Other areas inspected included the cancer centre, heart and vascular centre, nuclear medicine and molecular imaging units, neuroscience centre and renal care facilities.
Mbah was accompanied during the tour by the hospital’s Director, Professor Sam Agwu, alongside other medical specialists who provided explanations on the services and treatments planned for the facility.
The Enugu International Hospital is a quaternary healthcare facility with more than 300 beds and is designed to provide highly specialised medical services.
The governor said the hospital would not only expand access to advanced treatment but also create opportunities for healthcare professionals, strengthen the state’s medical sector and support Enugu’s ambition to become a recognised medical tourism destination.
With its range of specialist units and modern infrastructure, the facility is expected to play a significant role in improving access to complex medical care within Enugu and reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for certain treatments.