The state Government of Enugu in Nigeria has given approval for the construction of a new 250-bed quaternary health facility, to be named Enugu International Hospital.  

The latest move was announced by the Enugu State Health Commissioner professor Emmanuel Obi, while addressing a State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Enugu. 

As per a report by The Guardian, the Enugu International Hospital is a strategic initiative by the state government, aimed at establishing Enugu as a prime location for health, business, investment, tourism, as well as residency.  

According to Obi, the hospital will not only provide advanced specialised medical services but will also function as a hub for medical research and training. 

Obi emphasised that while the state continues to focus on primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare, the international hospital will cater to specialised medical needs.  

The facility, which will be located in the central area of Enugu city, is expected to enhance the state's existing healthcare infrastructure. 

Obi said: “Now, we are going to add quaternary healthcare to the scope, which simply means that an extension of tertiary care and advanced levels of medicine, which are highly specialised and not widely access. 

“The Enugu International Hospital is going to come up at Rangers Avenue. It will be centrally located in Enugu, and will be easily accessible from the international airport. 

“It will be that type of hospital that people will no longer have any reason to leave the shores of Nigeria to go to for healthcare.” 

In addition to the hospital's construction, the State Executive Council addressed the rising global concern over the Mpox disease.  

Obi revealed that the council has directed an intensification of the awareness campaign to educate the public about the disease. 

The Enugu International Hospital construction is a testament to the state's commitment to improving healthcare services and reducing the need for residents to seek medical treatment abroad. 

Obi added: “The government of Enugu State had discussions on how to ensure that effective surveillance, control, and prevention of any upsurge of Mpox in the state will be put in place. 

“The Ministry of Health is working with other health sector players, including the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Health Services, to ensure that citizens are aware, safe, and minimise their exposure to the Mpox.”