Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has inaugurated a 62-bed ultramodern medical centre donated by businessman and philanthropist, Dr Leemon Ikpea to his community in Ewatto, Esan South-East Local Government Area.

The facility is expected to improve access to healthcare for residents of Ewatto and neighbouring communities.

Speaking at the ceremony on Wednesday, Okpebholo praised Ikpea for investing in healthcare infrastructure. He described the project as a clear example of how private sector efforts can complement government work in improving healthcare delivery.

The governor noted that government alone cannot meet the healthcare needs of the people and urged other individuals and organisations with the means to invest in projects that improve residents’ welfare.

He also charged the management of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital and medical staff who will serve at the centre to maintain high standards of patient care.

Okpebholo highlighted his administration’s efforts, saying more than 2,000 healthcare workers had been recruited and over 65 primary healthcare centres upgraded across the state’s three senatorial districts.

He further assured residents that the contractor handling the Ewatto-Udo Road would return to site as the dry season approaches.

Dr Ikpea said the medical centre is equipped with modern facilities and will serve as an annex to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, who joined the governor at the event, also commended the philanthropist and called on other wealthy Nigerians and private organisations to partner with government in expanding healthcare infrastructure across the country.