BREAKING: Abia Governor Appoints Wife of His Major Political Opponent to Chair Board of Critical Institution

The Abia State Government has announced the reconstitution of the Management Board of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), appointing Benjamin Okezie Kalu’s wife, Dr. Ezinne Chinyere Benjamin-Kalu, as the new Chairman.

The decision was disclosed in an official press statement released on April 21, 2026, by Governor Alex Otti.

According to the statement, the reconstitution aligns with the statutory provisions guiding the establishment and administration of ABSUTH.

The move is part of broader efforts by the state government to strengthen institutional governance, improve operational efficiency, and elevate the standard of healthcare delivery and medical education within the facility.

Governor Otti emphasized that the newly inaugurated board is expected to play a pivotal role in repositioning the teaching hospital as a leading center for clinical excellence, advanced medical training, and cutting-edge research.

He noted that revitalizing ABSUTH is critical to addressing healthcare challenges in the state and enhancing public confidence in the institution.

The reconstituted board features a mix of seasoned professionals from the medical, academic, and administrative sectors.

Prof. Nneka Chioma Okoronkwo will serve as the Chief Medical Director, bringing clinical leadership and administrative oversight to the hospital’s operations.

Other members include Dr. Kelechi Omende, Dr. Temple Nwosu, and Dr. Patrick Umezurike, alongside senior academics such as Prof. P.E.N. Onyemachi, Prof. Gazie Okpara, and Prof. Chuks Kamanu.

The board also includes key government and administrative representatives, such as Dr. Ifeyinwa Blossom Uma Kalu, Mrs. Ihuoma Nwagbara, who will serve as Secretary to the Board, and Dr. Odochi Ewurum, representing the Nigerian Medical Association.

In his remarks, Governor Otti congratulated the chairman and members of the board, urging them to justify the trust placed in them by driving reforms that will enhance service delivery, ensure accountability, and promote innovation within the hospital system.

He stressed that their collective expertise should translate into tangible improvements in patient care, staff welfare, and the institution’s overall performance.

The appointments take immediate effect, as confirmed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, signaling the administration’s urgency in implementing reforms within the state’s healthcare sector.