The Mayor of Port Harcourt Local Government Area (PHALGA), Sir Allwell Ihunda, has commended members of Ogbakor Ikwerre USA/Canada (OIUSA) Inc. for their sustained efforts in improving the health and well-being of the Ikwerre people through their free medical and surgical missions.
He made the commendation during a courtesy visit by members of OIUSA in his office at the Council Secretariat.
The visit followed the successful completion of their latest free medical and surgical outreach in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Sir Ihunda, who expressed deep appreciation for the group’s commitment and sacrifice, said, “I want to commend you for the great job you are doing for the Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality.
“Health is indeed wealth, and you are proving that through your actions. I pray that God Almighty replenishes your resources a millionfold.”
He noted that he has always supported their initiatives across other Ikwerre local government areas and welcomed the decision to bring the next mission to Port Harcourt in 2027.
“We are happy that you have graciously chosen PHALGA for your next mission. I assure you of our full support to ensure that it becomes your most successful outreach yet”, the Mayor added.
He revealed that a health centre within the Council Secretariat has already been earmarked for the mission and that a liaison officer would be appointed to facilitate coordination and communication during preparations.
He also announced that the Council would be conducting a free medical outreach in Port Harcourt before the end of 2025, and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the health and well-being of residents.
Earlier in his remarks, the President of OIUSA, Dr. Patrick Ugo Anyawoke, informed the Mayor that the group had just concluded a five-day free medical and surgical mission in Obio/Akpor from October 13 to 17, 2025.
The outreach, themed, “Ehioma Bu Ekwnu” (Health is Wealth), served hundreds of residents and marked another milestone in the group’s ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Dr. Anyawoke confirmed that PHALGA had been selected as the next location for their 2027 mission and appealed for support from the Council in terms of logistics, facilities, and personnel.
He also emphasised on the need for the appointment of a liaison officer to ensure seamless planning and implementation.
OIUSA is a coalition of Ikwerre medical professionals based in the United States and Canada, dedicated to delivering healthcare services across Ikwerre land. The group has previously carried out successful missions in several Ikwerre LGAs.
The visit concluded with an inspection tour of the designated health facility at the Council Secretariat, which will serve as the venue for the 2027 medical and surgical outreach.
- Matthew is the Information Officer, PHALGA.