Governor of Anambra state, Chief Willie Obiano, has commissioned an ultra-modern diagnostic centre within the premises of the General Hospital Onitsha.

Speaking at the ceremony on Friday, Obiano expressed optimism that the centre would serve as a viable alternative to Nigerians who travel overseas in search of superior medical diagnosis as it is fully equipped with the latest facilities in modern medical research.

The governor used the occasion to formally inaugurate the renovation and reconstruction of the Onitsha General Hospital. He said that on completion, the hospital would, among other things, house specialist areas in surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics and internal medicine.

The governor added that it would also accommodate standard accident and emergency units with an airfield for the landing of helicopters to ensure a speedy movement of patients in and out of the hospital.

As part of the efforts to drive home the need for proper diagnosis of ailments before treatment, the governor announced that the Sun Medical Diagnostic Centre would provide free diagnosis to the public between from today, February 2, to Friday, February 6. He called on Onitsha residents to take advantage of the opportunity to attend to their medical needs.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Akabuike, in his speech explained that on completion of the renovation, the Onitsha General Hospital would serve as a training centre for house officers and resident doctors in different areas of medicine.

Also speaking, the Medical Director of Sun Diagnostic Centre, Dr. Paul Ezeukwu, said the centre has enough capacity to meet the medical examination needs of the people as it enjoys the collaborative partnership of some reputable laboratories in the United States of America. He further assured that the centre would extend its expertise to other laboratories and hospitals in the state for a more comprehensive coverage.

Dr. Ezeukwu declared the readiness of his group to partner with the Obiano administration to set up a world-class cancer centre that would be the first of its kind in the South-East of Nigeria. He urged fellow indigenes of Anambra State to bring home their investments and expertise now that Governor Obiano had created a favourable environment for all.

•Photo shows Governor Obiano speaking during the commissioning of Sun Medical Diagnostic Center, Onitsha.