Delta State governor, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Delta state branch, for the sacrifices made by doctors and medical workers who continue to serve in Nigeria despite the lure of better opportunities overseas.
The Governor stated that NMA, led by its Chairman, Dr. Israel Adaigho, paid a courtesy visit to the Governor in Asaba, saying its role in safeguarding quality healthcare is appreciated.
The Governor re-emphasised the value of doctors serving at home, saying, ‘ Our doctors should work in Nigeria and earn their respect rather than go abroad and become care assistants.’
Oborevwori assured that his administration would look into the association’s requests and reaffirmed his commitment to equipping Delta hospitals with medical facilities comparable to those in developed countries.
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.
He later approved the release of a bus to the Association.
NMA Chairman, Dr. Israel Adaigho, lauded Governor Oborevwori’s 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 expressed confidence that the future of healthcare delivery in the state remains bright under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
He listed key strides, including establishing the College of Health Technology, Ovrode; the College of Medical Sciences, Southern Delta University, Ozoro; and the College of Nursing, Onicha-Uku, and renovating over 150 primary healthcare centres.
He further highlighted the provision of hospital equipment such as MRI machines and 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners, and Delta’s pioneering payment of medical residency training funds ahead of the federal government.
Beyond the health sector, Adaigho praised the Governor for critical infrastructure 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 the government, he highlighted some challenges confronting health workers, including manpower shortages.
