ABAKALIKI, Nigeria — The Ebonyi State Government has introduced a free, round-the-clock ambulance service aimed at strengthening emergency healthcare delivery for residents of Abakaliki and surrounding local government areas.
The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Francis Nwifuru through the Ministry of Health, was unveiled on Friday, September 12, 2025 by the governor’s special assistant on documentation, Dr. Boniface Nwankwo.
He said the service is designed to provide rapid medical response in critical situations and ultimately save lives.
“To ensure efficiency, five standby drivers have been deployed to each political ward, operating round the clock. Residents can access the service by calling the toll-free hotline 112 or 08127989346,” Dr. Nwankwo announced.
The programme covers emergencies including pregnancy-related complications, health crises in children under five, snake bites, gunshot injuries, and road traffic accidents.
Patients transported by the ambulances will also receive 48 hours of free medical care funded by the state government.
Governor Nwifuru said the measure is part of his administration’s strategy to reduce maternal and infant mortality while addressing preventable health-related deaths.
“Our aim is to ensure unhindered access to healthcare and improve the wellbeing of all Ebonyians,” he said in remarks relayed by officials.
The ambulance service extends beyond Abakaliki to Ohaukwu and Ivo Local Government Areas, reflecting a wider reach for rural communities where access to emergency care has historically been limited.
Authorities cautioned residents to use the hotline responsibly and only in genuine emergencies to prevent abuse and ensure the service remains effective.
Health experts in the state have welcomed the initiative, noting that timely medical intervention often makes the difference between life and death in emergencies.
By coupling the service with free treatment for the first 48 hours, officials say Ebonyi is setting a precedent in improving health outcomes at the state level.
