Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has commended the World Bank for implementing projects that directly impact residents, particularly in the healthcare sector.

The governor also assured the bank of the state’s commitment to sustaining the IMPACT healthcare programme.

According to a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, Nwifuru gave the assurance on Monday while receiving the World Bank Mission Assessment Team on Impact Projects at his office in Abakaliki.

Describing the intervention as significant, the governor said the programme aligns with his administration’s People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.

“This is the first time the World Bank is doing a project we are celebrating, not only benefiting. The impact of this project is being seen. It is inline with what our people want,” he said.

Nwifuru stated that his government prioritises initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to citizens, adding that Ebonyi would continue to partner with development organisations offering people-focused programmes.

Highlighting developments in the state’s health sector, the governor said Ebonyi now ranks among states with functional medical facilities, citing investments in infrastructure and equipment, including MRI and CT scan machines.

“We have built staff quarters, undertaken landscaping, and built a conducive environment for the people. Our MRI machines, CT Scan, and others are fully functional,” he said.

He reiterated the state’s resolve to sustain the World Bank-supported initiative, assuring the delegation of continued collaboration.

“We are not only going to complement your efforts, but we are also going to exceed your expectations. We have seen the benefit, we have seen the need for the project, and we will sustain it,” the governor added.

Earlier, the leader of the World Bank delegation, Onoriode Ezire, commended the administration’s strides in healthcare delivery.

“We want to extend our appreciation to you. We thank you for delivering the CT Scan, MRI machines, recruiting 328 workers, and ensuring the healthcare system is moving smoothly,” Ezire said.

The delegation noted that the visit was part of efforts to assess implementation progress and explore sustainability measures for the programme.