Uchenwa Edeh Transforms Umuode Community with Multi-Million Naira State-of-the-Art Hospital
● Jude Ossai
Umuode community in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State was filled with excitement and gratitude on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, as Uchenwa Edeh, a US-based health professional and philanthropist, unveiled a state-of-the-art hospital – Tori Medical Services.
The multi-million naira hospital, described as a game-changer for healthcare delivery in the region, was inaugurated at Z Layout, Umuode. The grand event coincided with New Year celebrations and was chaired by the Cahirman and Chief Executive Officer of Power Group, Professor Bart Nnaji, who praised Edeh’s foresight and commitment to her roots.
Professor Nnaji who is also a former Minister of Power commended Edeh for her generosity, describing the hospital as a significant step toward addressing the healthcare challenges in rural communities. “Today, we celebrate the fulfillment of a noble dream. Uchenwa Edeh, our daughter who has made us proud, has brought hope to our people. This hospital will not only reduce the difficulty in accessing healthcare but also uplift the entire community. May she continue to grow in strength and grace,” he said.
In her remarks, Edeh expressed joy at the completion of the project, noting that it was her long-standing dream to provide accessible healthcare to her people. “Living in the United States, I have witnessed the benefits of quality healthcare, and I wanted my people to experience the same. This hospital is a gift to my community, a way of bringing succor to those in need. I give all the glory to God and thank my parish priest for his unwavering support,” she said.
Edeh revealed that Tori Medical Services is staffed with qualified personnel, including a professional nurse, and is equipped to handle the basic healthcare needs of the community. “The facility is designed to offer timely medical attention and reduce the hardship faced by our people in seeking healthcare elsewhere,” she added.
Dr. Maurice Ede, a lecturer at Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) who was present at the event, described the hospital as a blessing. “This project is a testament to what faith, compassion, and commitment can achieve. Uchenwa Edeh has set an example that others should emulate,” he said.
Community leader and former deputy chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Council Emmanuel Omaba hailed the project as a transformative initiative. “What Uchenwa Edeh has done is beyond commendable. She has shown us what it means to give back selflessly. This hospital will serve as a beacon of hope for generations to come,” he remarked.
Mrs. Nkem Ogbu, a resident of Umuode, shared her excitement. “For years, we have struggled to get medical care. Now, with this hospital in our community, we no longer have to travel long distances. Uchenwa has brought us a gift we will forever cherish,” she said.
The colorful ceremony featured cultural displays, live music, and a feast for the attendees. Guests, including Catholic priests, community leaders, and dignitaries, witnessed the cutting of the ceremonial ribbon, marking the official opening of the hospital.
Tori Medical Services is expected to significantly improve the health outcomes of Umuode and neighboring communities by providing accessible and quality healthcare services, reinforcing the importance of giving back to one’s roots. GMTNewsng
