10/07/2026
*The Official Flag-off and Handover of Site for the SURWASH Water Scheme and Sanitation Facility at Enyiogugu Health Centre*
On Thursday, 9th July 2026, officials of the Imo State Small Town Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (ISSTOWA), alongside the State Coordinating Team of the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, visited Enyiogugu Health Centre for the official flag-off ceremony and handover of the project site for the construction of a SURWASH Water Scheme and Sanitation Facility.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the Imo State Government's efforts to improve access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene services across communities in the state.
During the event, the project site was formally handed over to the Traditional Ruler of Ezigaragu Autonomous Community, His Royal Highness Eze Dr. Sir Justin Chukwuma Nwaneri, PhD, JP, KSM, FIICA (Eziagu III of Ezigaragu Enyiogugu), and the contractor responsible for executing the project.
The event was attended by distinguished personalities, including:
- His Royal Highness Eze Dr. Sir Justin Chukwuma Nwaneri, PhD, JP, KSM, FIICA (Eziagu III of Ezigaragu Autonomous Community).
- The Traditional Prime Minister of Ezigaragu Autonomous Community, Okenze Julian Nwogu.
- A Community Leader - Ishinze Val Igbo.
- The Palace Secretary of Ezigaragu - Chief Innocent O.E Nwachukwu
- The President General (PG) of Ezigaragu Community - Mr Chidi Teddy Ukachi
- Officials of Imo ISSTOWA.
- Members of the State Coordinating Team of the SURWASH Programme.
- Community stakeholders and other invited guests.
Speaking during the ceremony, His Royal Highness Eze Dr. Sir Justin Chukwuma Nwaneri, PhD, JP, KSM, FIICA (Eziagu III of Ezigaragu Enyiogugu Autonomous Community), expressed profound appreciation to the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Imo State Government, and the SURWASH Programme for bringing the life-changing intervention to Enyiogugu Health Centre. He described the project as a major step toward improving healthcare services and the wellbeing of the people.
Earlier, the General Manager of Imo ISSTOWA, Engr. Ebere Ononiwu, emphasized the need for the host community to take ownership of the project by protecting and maintaining the facilities. He explained that the water scheme is solar-powered, ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of clean water and improved sanitation facilities. According to him, the project is expected to enhance healthcare delivery, promote public health, and improve the wellbeing of residents and users of the health centre.
In his remarks, the traditional ruler, Traditional Prime Minister - Okenze Julian Nwogu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Ezigaragu community to supporting the successful implementation of the project. He assured the contractor of the community's full cooperation to ensure the timely completion, security, and sustainability of the facilities.
The project represents another important milestone in the Imo State Government's commitment to improving the quality of life of its citizens through sustainable water supply, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure.
A warm congratulations to the entire people of Ezigaragu Autonomous Community and the good people of Enyiogugu on this remarkable achievement. The approval and commencement of this project reflect the community's progress and will undoubtedly contribute to improved healthcare services, better sanitation, and enhanced living conditions for present and future generations.
Special commendation is also extended to the Government of Imo State under the leadership of His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodimma, Imo ISSTOWA, and the SURWASH Programme for their unwavering commitment to expanding access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities across the state. Their dedication to sustainable community development is worthy of recognition and appreciation.
It is our collective hope that the project will be completed on schedule and properly maintained for the lasting benefit of Enyiogugu Health Centre, Ezigaragu Autonomous Community, and the surrounding communities.
