The Ebonyi Government said it had earmarked N50 million for treatment of its citizens afflicted by serious diseases and those facing welfare challenges.
Commissioner for Information and State Orientation in the state, Sen. Emmanuel Onwe, made this known in Abakaliki on Saturday while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting.
According to him, the government recognises the efforts of the Department for Religious and Welfare Matters headed by Rev. Fr Abraham Nwali and offered the funds to enhance its activities.
“We are aware of some serious health challenges confronting some citizens such as leprosy, cancer, various forms of surgeries, among others and efforts being made by the department to assist those afflicted.
“The fund was thus approved in recognition of Nwali’s good works, to encourage and make him spread his network of assistance to those not currently covered in the programme.
“This will, however, be in proper coordination with various Christian denominations in the state under the guidance of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ebonyi chapter,” he said.
The commissioner said the council received a letter from the Bishop of Abakaliki Catholic Diocese alongside other high ranking priests, commending the government for its various infrastructural and human development strides.
“The catholic diocese according to the letter, offered to assist the government in collecting the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax in all schools that fall within its jurisdiction.
“The governor thanked the diocese on behalf of the government and extended the appreciation to the entire Christian denominations in the state for their prayers and support.
“He reiterated the government’s resolve to accommodate the views and interests of all stakeholders through adequate consultation, interaction and partnership,” he said.
Onwe announced that the embargo imposed by the government on Ghin-Ghian, a Chinese company on quarry exploration in the state, had been lifted.
“The company which operates at Ezillo area of the state along the Enugu-Abakaliki federal highway was banned from operating for official reasons.
“The good news, however, is that the ban has been lifted and agreement has been reached with it over operational modes.
“It was directed to rectify all environment degradation incidents encountered in its host community during the course of its operations.
“It was also mandated to supply 300 tonnes of stone-base and 300 tonnes of chippings to the state government on a monthly basis,” he said.
The commissioner said that the agreement reached with the company would be reviewed periodically. (NAN)
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