The Anambra State Government has recognised high-performing local government councils and frontline health personnel for their contributions to improving primary healthcare services across the state.
The recognition came under the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge Fund, an initiative of the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency aimed at encouraging excellence, accountability and innovation in healthcare administration at the grassroots level.
Speaking during the award ceremony in Awka, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, described the programme as a strategic effort to motivate local governments to take greater ownership of healthcare delivery and address challenges through effective leadership and collaboration.
According to him, “the initiative goes beyond competition, serving as a platform to inspire local authorities to adopt innovative approaches that enhance the health and well-being of residents”.
Obidike noted that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has made significant investments in primary healthcare infrastructure and services, positioning Anambra among the leading states in healthcare performance within the South-East region.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Governor’s wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, whose Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative has supported public health awareness campaigns focused on disease prevention, healthy nutrition and community wellness.
In her remarks, the First Lady said the awards demonstrated the state’s dedication to building a healthcare system that is efficient, transparent and responsive to the needs of citizens.
She highlighted achievements recorded by the current administration, including the upgrade of health facilities, recruitment and capacity building of healthcare personnel, improved availability of essential medicines, and enhanced maternal and child healthcare services.
Mrs. Soludo emphasised that primary healthcare remains central to disease prevention, immunisation, health education, nutrition and maternal care, adding that her office would continue to complement government efforts through community-based interventions and partnerships.
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At the event, Anaocha Local Government Area emerged as the overall winner of the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge and received a cash reward of ₦3 million.
Ihiala Local Government Area secured second place with a prize of ₦2 million, while Oyi Local Government Area finished third and received ₦1 million.
Individual excellence was also celebrated. Dr. Amadi Chibuike received the Best Telemedicine Doctor Award, Chukwuma Ifeoma was recognised as the Best HIV Desk Officer, while Mrs. Edith Onwuka earned the award for Best Programme Manager.
Representatives of international development partners, including the World Health Organisation, UNICEF and Médecins Sans Frontières, commended the initiative and reiterated their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at strengthening primary healthcare systems and improving health outcomes for communities across Anambra State.
