Philanthropist Festus Mbisiogu Transforms Healthcare in Imo: PHC, Doctors’ Quarters, Solar Lights Commissioned in Umuchima

Umuchima, Imo State — Residents of Umuchima community in Ideato South Local Government Area now have improved access to healthcare, thanks to a major intervention by the Uzotex Charity Foundation. The foundation, led by businessman and philanthropist Festus Mbisiogu, has constructed a state-of-the-art Primary Health Care (PHC) centre, complete with residential doctors’ quarters, solar-powered streetlights, and a 300kVA transformer to power the facility and surrounding community.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, which included a free medical outreach benefiting over 500 patients, Mbisiogu described the PHC as “a testament to what responsive and people-centred humanitarian projects should be.” He urged community members and health workers to take ownership of the facility to ensure its long-term sustainability.

“This centre is for the people. Health workers, community leaders, and residents must embrace it fully,” Mbisiogu said.

The foundation’s initiative aligns with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma’s policy of prioritizing accessible and affordable healthcare. Mbisiogu also announced that deliveries at the PHC would be free, with the first 50 women receiving N50,000 each upon discharge.

Highlighting the broader context, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, revealed that the federal government plans to expand functional PHCs from 1,800 in 2023 to 17,000 by 2027 — an ambitious effort to strengthen primary healthcare nationwide.

Local leaders praised the foundation’s intervention. Member of the House of Representatives, Ikenga Ugochinyere, described Mbisiogu as “a selfless philanthropist who has consistently invested in health, education, and community welfare programs.” In recognition of the project, Ugochinyere pledged N5 million to support the PHC’s operations.

Obinna Mbagho, chairman of the commissioning ceremony, lauded the collaboration between the foundation and local stakeholders, emphasizing the transformative impact of the new healthcare and community infrastructure.

Uzotex Charity Foundation, founded over a decade ago, has a mission to enhance the health and well-being of Nigerians, with a particular focus on women and children. Its work in Umuchima underscores the growing role of private initiatives in complementing government efforts to expand primary healthcare services across Nigeria.