Dr. Nwokie
A renowned philanthropist and entrepreneur Dr. Summers Vitus Nwokie has embarked on a groundbreaking project to construct $200 million medical facility and modern morgue in Ezinihitte Mbaise Counci Area of Imo State.
The project, which is poised to become one of the largest and most advanced healthcare centres in West Africa will provide the people easy access to medical facilities.
The medical facility will feature state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, robotics technology, specialized wards for various medical disciplines, and a research centre dedicated to advancing medical science and treatment options in Nigeria.
The accompanying modern morgue will provide world-class mortuary services, addressing a long-standing gap in the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
This morgue which is 90 per cent ready also comes with a chapel so funeral mass can be held at the premises and this would drastically cut down funeral expenses.
Speaking to newsmen in Owerri on Wednesday, while inspecting the ongoing project, Chief Nwokie expressed his deep commitment to improving the lives of his fellow citizens.
He emphasized that if every wealthy Nigerian invested in healthcare, the need to seek medical treatment abroad would significantly decrease. “This, in turn, would make quality medical care accessible to all, including the underprivileged, at an affordable cost.
“This project which will gulp $200million is more than just a building; it’s a commitment to the people of Imo State and the surrounding states. I have always believed that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and with this facility, we are taking a significant step towards ensuring that right for everyone in this region,” he said.
Chief Nwokie, who has spent years contributing to various social and economic development projects across Nigeria, emphasized the importance of giving back to the community that raised him.
“Mbaise has always been home. It is where my roots are, and it is only fitting that I invest in the health and well-being of my people.”
He noted that the facility would also create numerous job opportunities for local residents, adding that with the influx of medical professionals and ancillary staff, the project is set to boost the local economy significantly.
The medical facility is slated for completion by late 2025, with plans for continuous expansion while the morgue is slated for completion by late 2024, he said.
Community leaders and residents have lauded Chief Nwokie’s initiative, describing it as a “dream come true” for the people of Mbaise.
“For years, we’ve struggled with inadequate healthcare facilities. This project is going to save lives and improve the quality of healthcare for generations to come,” said Dr. Nnenna Okoro, a physician.