UMUAHIA — Governor Alex Otti of Abia State is set to officially flag off the construction of the Abia Medical City, a landmark $1.3 billion healthcare infrastructure project, in early July 2025. The initiative is designed to transform the state into a premier hub for medical excellence and reverse the growing trend of outbound medical tourism from Nigeria.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, June 26, 2025, by officials from the Abia State Government, who described the project as a “legacy investment” that would redefine access to world-class healthcare and attract local and international medical professionals.
According to government sources, the Abia Medical City will feature a network of ultramodern hospitals, research institutions, pharmaceutical and diagnostic centres, medical training schools, residential facilities, and wellness hubs. The project is expected to be built through a public-private partnership model, leveraging global expertise and funding.
Governor Otti, a former economist and banker, has repeatedly expressed his administration’s commitment to revamping the state’s health sector through strategic investments, improved personnel welfare, and infrastructure renewal.
“This project is not just about hospitals; it’s about building a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem that can compete with global standards. We want Abians and Nigerians to have access to the best medical care without having to fly abroad,” a senior aide to the governor stated.
When completed, the Abia Medical City is projected to create over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, boost medical research, and serve as a referral centre for complex health conditions across West Africa. It also aligns with the governor’s broader vision of turning Abia into a destination for innovation, health, and economic transformation.
Health experts and policy analysts have welcomed the development, saying the project—if successfully executed—could serve as a model for other states, reduce pressure on the national health system, and save billions of dollars currently lost to foreign medical trips.
Construction is expected to begin immediately after the official flag-off in July, with phase one slated for completion within 24 to 36 months.
The Abia Medical City will be located on a large expanse of land strategically chosen to ensure accessibility, security, and environmental compliance. The government has assured of full regulatory approvals and strict monitoring to ensure transparency and timely delivery.
