Enugu State Commissioner for health , Prof Dr Gorge Ugwu on Tuesday disclosed that science-driven policies are transforming healthcare delivery and outcomes across the state.
He made this known during a press briefing to commemorate the World Health Day 2026, marked annually on April 7 by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” Ugwu emphasised that Enugu’s adoption of the One Health model – integrating human, animal, and environmental health systems,has become critical in addressing emerging and existing health challenges.
“These challenges are interconnected. They cannot be solved by one sector alone. That is why the One Health approach is particularly relevant for us,” Ugwu said.
Prof Ugwu in red cap
He explained that the state was strengthening collaboration across the health, agriculture, and environmental sectors to enhance disease surveillance, risk assessment, and coordinated response mechanisms.
Ugwu credited the transformation of the state’s health system to science-backed governance under Governor Peter Mbah.
“Here in Enugu State, we have witnessed the power of science-driven policies under the vision and leadership of His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah,” he said.
According to him, improved disease surveillance systems, stronger laboratory capacity, and coordinated emergency preparedness, guided by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control framework and WHO standards, have significantly enhanced the state’s ability to detect and respond to outbreaks.
The commissioner noted that ongoing investments in primary healthcare infrastructure, including plans to deliver 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres and seven Type-3 facilities, reflect t Governor Mbah’s administration’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He added that the state was scaling up routine immunisation, reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, and advancing digital health systems grounded in data and evidence.
Ugwu also acknowledged the contributions of development partners, particularly the WHO, which he noted is marking its 78th anniversary, for providing technical support and catalytic funding for health programmes in the state.
Despite the progress, he admitted that challenges such as workforce shortages, infrastructure deficits, funding limitations, and rising demand for quality healthcare persist.
“Together, through science, solidarity, and sustained commitment, we will build a healthier, safer and more prosperous Enugu State for all,” he said.
Activities mapped out for the celebration include a roadshow within Enugu metropolis and a Two-day medical outreach for civil servants, organised by the state Ministry of Health in collaboration with the WHO.
