Nwifuru: Ebonyi Gov. states why he suspended health commissioner 

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru has disclosed his reason for suspending the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Moses Ekuma, for three months, citing his failure to show capacity to manage the ministry.

As gathered by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the governor made known his reason for suspending the commissioner, while addressing stakeholders in an engagement forum for the 2025 budget proposal in Abakaliki on Wednesday.

Nwifuru stated that the health ministry suffers setbacks, despite having a sufficient number of skilled personnel.

“Those in positions of authority must take their responsibilities seriously and fulfill their obligations.”

“Those who hold positions of authority must recognize that their role is not just a privilege, but also a responsibility.”

Nwifuru in his statement, revealed how heavily the government has invested in health, with little to show for it.

“Billions of naira have been spent on renovating primary healthcare centres and general hospitals, but the results are not impressive.”

“The state paid a contractor N3 billion for the supply of vital equipment and consumables to its primary healthcare facilities.”

Speaking further, Nwifuru announced that the government would form committees to assess the condition of health facilities across the state.

“Our efforts to improve healthcare have included a drug revolving fund for general hospitals, with a notable 60% delivery achievement.”

“We’re expanding health facilities to provide rural residents with prompt medical attention, ensuring they receive the necessary care before being referred to specialist hospitals.”

Nwifuru stated that once the health facilities are fully rehabilitated, health officials will manage them independently to ensure their sustainability.

“Doctors will generate revenue to cover their own salaries, as well as those of other health workers, and contribute to government revenue.”

“Likewise, the state broadcasting service will be transformed into a public liability company.”

The governor stated that the establishment’s generated funds will be used to support its operations, with any redundant staff being redeployed to relevant ministries.

Nwifuru cautioned commissioners and other public officeholders to be diligent in their duties, warning that those found inefficient would face sanctions.

“Opportunities have been given to them to make them know they have responsibilities.”

“We’ve been in office for over a year, and I expect everyone to take their responsibilities seriously – no joking around.”

The stakeholders present at the event, commended the governor for his open governance, and promised to work hand in hand with him.

Know about Nwifuru

Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is the current governor of Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

He was born on February 25, 1975. He hails from Offerekpe village, Agbaja community in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Nwifuru’s education

He attended Oferekpe Agbaja Community School and later Community Secondary School, Nwofe Agbaja.

Later, he enrolled in Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, to study Building Technology and Woodwork.

Nwifuru holds a master’s degree in Procurement, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management from Salford University, Manchester, United Kingdom.

Personal life of Nwifuru

The governor is married to Chief Mrs. Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, and they have five children. He is a Christian and has undertaken all the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Communion, Confirmation, and Marriage according to the Catholic doctrine.

Political career

Nwifuru, before becoming governor, had a distinguished career in politics, serving as the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly.

He was first elected as a member of the State Assembly in 2011 and later became the Deputy Chief Whip and Chairman of the House Committee on Lands, Survey, Urban Development, and Environment.

Nwifuru’s development agenda

As governor, Nwifuru has outlined his development agenda for Ebonyi State, which includes improving infrastructure, promoting vocational and technical education, and strengthening the state’s scholarship system.

He also plans to upgrade healthcare infrastructure, improve service delivery, and introduce free medical outreaches and health awareness campaigns.

In addition, his agenda includes promoting practical farming, providing agricultural inputs and services, and supporting farmers with agro-processing and value chain services.

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