The official declaration for the opening of a 40-foot container of sophisticated medical equipment donated by the Canadian government to Hoperising for Imolites Foundation has taken place at Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area.
The National President of the Foundation and frontline governorship hopeful, Chief Success Akagburuonye, who made the declaration, said the donation was aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving access to quality medical services across Imo State.
Chief Akagburuonye announced that the medical equipment, valued at 7.3 million dollars, would be officially launched on November 7, when 32 hospitals that applied for the items are expected to take delivery of them.
He explained that the donation would enhance the capacity of hospitals to provide quality patient care and respond more effectively to public health challenges.
The philanthropist disclosed that his foundation had, since 2021, embarked on several empowerment and development programmes, including the installation of solar panels, CCTV systems and inverters, as well as skills acquisition initiatives.
He said the programmes had benefited more than 12,000 youths across the 27 local government areas of Imo State, with 322 additional beneficiaries recently graduating in various vocational skills.
Chief Akagburuonye noted that the initiatives were designed to complement the efforts of the Imo State Government in improving the welfare of the people.
A staff member of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, attached to the Abia-Imo Customs Command, Mr Nelson Onuoha, said he attended the ceremony to certify the container and authorise its opening.
Some medical practitioners at the event, including Dr Shah Azuokorie of Owerri Zone, Dr Kelechi Omende of Okigwe Zone and Dr Ndubueze Nwakudu of Orlu Zone, expressed optimism that the equipment would improve healthcare delivery, particularly in rural communities.
They commended Chief Akagburuonye for what they described as a demonstration of selfless service and commitment to the health sector.
A political stalwart, Sir Justice Ogu, alongside coordinators of Chief Akagburuonye’s political ambition, Dr Chris Ekwueme, Mrs Ijeoma Azuike and Dr Humble Chimaobi, also praised the initiative, describing it as a positive contribution to the state government’s efforts to strengthen healthcare services.
The donated items include scanning machines, ventilators, diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments and other essential medical supplies.