The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Delta State branch, Tuesday, expressed confidence that the future of healthcare delivery in the state remains bright under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The Association, led by its Chairman, Dr. Israel Agadaigho, stated this during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.
Dr. Agadaigho lauded Governor Oborevwori’s led government for what he described as massive achievements and excellence in primary healthcare, the Contributory Health Scheme, improved maternal and child healthcare through the establishment of mobile clinics, and the strengthening of health institutions across the state.
He listed key strides to include; the establishment of the College of Health Technology, Ovrode; College of Medical Sciences, Southern Delta University, Ozoro; and the College of Nursing, Onicha-Uku, alongside the renovation of over 150 primary healthcare centres.
He further highlighted the provision of hospital equipment such as MRI machines and 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners, as well as Delta’s pioneering payment of medical residency training funds ahead of the Federal Government.
Beyond the health sector, Dr. Agadaigho praised the Governor for critical infrastructural projects such as the completion of the Ughelli–Asaba Road dualisation project, the construction of flyovers in Effurun and Warri, and the clearance of backlog pension payments for state and local government retirees.
While pledging the association’s continued partnership with government, he also drew attention to some challenges confronting health workers, including manpower shortages.
In his response, Governor Oborevwori commended the NMA for its role in safeguarding quality healthcare and for the sacrifices made by doctors and medical workers who continue to serve in Nigeria despite the lure of better opportunities overseas.
He listed some of his administration’s recent interventions, including the procurement of eight dialysis machines, three each for Asaba Specialist Hospital and Central Hospital, Warri, and two for DELSUTH, Oghara as well as three MRI machines, one for each senatorial district of the state.
Re-emphasising the value of doctors serving at home, the Governor said: “It is better for our doctors to work in Nigeria and earn their respect than to go abroad and become care assistants.”
Oborevwori assured that his administration would look into the requests tabled by the association and reaffirmed his commitment to equipping Delta hospitals with medical facilities comparable to those in developed countries. He approved the release of a bus to the Association.
