By Nnedinma Okeke
The State Immunization Officer at the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), Mrs. Edith Onwuka, has emerged as the best state programme manager at the Anambra Primary Healthcare (PHC) leadership challenge awards and recognition ceremony held on June 17, at the Banquet Hall, Light House, Awka.
Mrs. Onwuka received a cash prize of ₦300,000 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to strengthening primary healthcare delivery, improving immunization coverage across the state.
The leadership challenge initiative was designed to recognize and celebrate exceptional efforts by healthcare professionals and programme managers who have played significant roles in strengthening healthcare systems at the grassroots.
Speaking with journalists shortly after receiving the award, Mrs. Onwuka expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a testament to the collective efforts of healthcare workers across the state.
She dedicated the award to children under the age of five, who remain the primary focus of immunization programmes, as well as to health workers and programme officers who continue to work tirelessly to improve health outcomes.
“This is our victory, not mine alone,” she said.
According to her, the recognition will inspire healthcare personnel to remain committed to excellence, knowing that dedication and hard work are valued and rewarded.
“The award has shown that the state government appreciates commitment and excellence, encouraging us to continue giving our best in service to the people,” she added.
Mrs. Onwuka commended the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for creating an enabling environment for healthcare workers to thrive, appreciating the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, the State leadership challenge consultant, and the organizing committee for initiating a programme she described as vital to improving healthcare delivery in the state.
She encouraged healthcare workers who were not recognized during the challenge not to be discouraged, urging them to remain dedicated to their duties and continue striving for excellence.
“In every competition, a winner must emerge. Those who were not recognized this time should remain focused and committed, as their efforts may be rewarded in future editions,” she said.
Nnedinma Okeke is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
