The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Vincent Okpala, has been honoured with a United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) champion’s medal for his contributions in the health sector.
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Edward Kallon, said the award was for the commissioner’s contributions in the sector as well as his ability to lead Anambra health teams.
Mr Kallon, who spoke with journalists, noted that his team was were impressed with what they saw during the inauguration of the state Data Operations Centre (DOC), Mobile Technology Health Insurance Platform.
Kallon said that the State Data Manager, Mrs Judith Asike, did an excellent job. He also commended the commissioner for appointing young people, who are capable of doing the job.
“She is fantastic, talks with confidence and knows the job too.’’
Responding, Dr Okpala thanked the team for the international recognition and assured them of his continued commitment in the sector in Nigeria and Africa.
“I want to express my gratitude to the UN, EU and WHO representatives in the state for this recognition and my dedication goes to Gov. Willie Obiano and frontline health workers for their doggedness in the line of duty.
In attendance during the award recognition were Dr Erasmus Morah, UNAIDS Country Rep; Dr Walter Mulombo, WHO Country Rep; Dr Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, State Coordinator, WHO and Mr Linus Nwankwo, Permanent Secretary in the health ministry. ##
