The Delta State Executive Council has approved a series of major health sector projects aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery across the state, including the completion and equipping of hospitals, establishment of specialised medical units, and upgrading of key public health facilities.
Briefing journalists after the Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, said the approvals reflect the administration’s commitment to improving access to quality and modern healthcare services for residents.
He announced the completion of the Mother and Child Hospital in Ekpan, a project initiated in 2011, adding that the council approved the procurement of medical equipment to ensure the facility becomes operational soon.
According to him, the hospital will be opened to the public once installation of the necessary equipment is completed.
Dr. Onojaeme also disclosed that three Mother and Child Hospitals—in Ekpan, Owa-Alero, and the Central Hospital in Warri—have been completed as part of efforts to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services across the state.
The council further approved the ceding of the Central Hospital in Kwale as the take-off site for the proposed teaching hospital of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale.
The commissioner described the decision as a major milestone that would enhance medical education, create employment opportunities, and expand access to specialised healthcare.
He added that Delta State stands to benefit from the Federal Government’s plan to establish oncology centres in federal teaching hospitals, which will support advanced cancer treatment services within the state.
Following a comprehensive assessment of health facilities, the Executive Council also approved the procurement of modern medical equipment for public hospitals and the creation of new specialised departments to improve service delivery.
A key highlight of the approvals is the upgrade of the state’s Public Health Laboratory to enable it conduct advanced testing for infectious diseases such as Ebola and other public health emergencies locally, eliminating the need to send samples outside the state as was done during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The council also approved the establishment of neuropsychiatric units in selected hospitals to address rising cases of mental health disorders and substance abuse, alongside plans to develop oncology services, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy facilities within the state.
Dr. Onojaeme said the initiatives underscore Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to building a stronger healthcare system that ensures residents can access world-class medical services within Delta State without having to travel long distances for specialised treatment.
