PHOTOS: WHO Presents $1.5M To Abia Governor

A cheque of 1.5m US dollars was today, presented to governor Okezie by World Health Organization for the implementation of its 'SAVE ONE MILLION LIVES PROGRAM' in Abia State.

Incidentally, the state Health Commissioner, Dr. John Ahukanna, led the World Health Organization delegation. Presenting the cheque to the governor, he remarked that the money be judiciously disbursed to Maternal/Child Health Care in the state....


The $1.5m grant is a seed fund for beneficiary states whose work plans had been scrutinized by Federal Ministry Of Works/World Bank and approved as implemented. It has a 12 month reassessment period which if previous year results are better, reward by way of more money is given to performing states.

The Save One Million Lives Program For Result (SOMLFR) was initiated to:
1. Save one million maternal/child lives per year from preventable caused.
2. Target pregnant mothers and children under age five and,
3. Results oriented healthcare financing option


This health program lays emphasis on these six (6) key areas: Vaccination Coverage in young children, Vitamin A supplementation in children, Insecticidal Treatment Net Promotion in children under age five, HIV counseling/Testing in pregnant women at ante natal care, Contraception using modern methods and lastly, Skilled birth attendants usage.

Governor Okezie who received the delegation with warmth and excitement assured them that not only will the funds be strictly applied to the execution of the originating health project, he assured of thorough supervision. The governor is optimistic that this gesture will save lives of Abians and equally boost the state's health sector.