September 23, (THEWILL) — The Imo State Specialist Hospital, Owerri, has suspended all contract staff and part-time consultants to pave the way for ongoing renovation and upgrading of its facilities.
The directive, signed by Mrs. Nwanedo Ogechi C. and dated September 18, 2025, takes effect from October 1, 2025, until further notice.
Management said the decision is tied to Governor Hope Uzodimma’s comprehensive healthcare upgrade programme, explaining that the move will ease operational bottlenecks during renovation and ensure the hospital reopens with improved service capacity.
Suspended staff were instructed to hand over all hospital property in their possession to their respective Heads of Department or Units before the directive takes effect.
While acknowledging the contributions of the affected staff, management appealed for patience, stressing that the measure is in the overall interest of the state’s healthcare system.
The Chief Medical Director, Dr. Rajinda Ibekube, Head of Medical Services, Dr. Amajoyi Cornelius C., and Head of Administration Services, Mrs. Onaegbulem Augusta, reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to excellence.
They described the renovation as a milestone in repositioning the hospital into a premier medical centre capable of meeting the health needs of residents and beyond.
Management further assured the public that updates on service resumption will be communicated once renovation reaches a safe and functional stage.
The notice ended with appreciation to the suspended staff for their cooperation, urging them to remain patient as government works to transform the hospital into a model of modern healthcare.
