ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Health has called on Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under its oversight to remain diligent in implementing the budgetary provisions for the health sector.
This charge was given by the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Ferguson Onwo, during an interactive session with the heads of various health institutions in the state.
Hon. Onwo stressed the importance of ensuring that all MDAs within the health sector maintain clean financial records, underscoring the committee’s expectation of optimal budgetary performance in 2024. He noted that the Delta State Government is committed to meeting the health needs of its citizens through effective management and utilization of allocated resources.
Speaking at the session, the lawmaker, who represents Isoko South 2 Constituency, explained that the “Performance Review” meeting with MDAs forms part of the committee’s oversight functions as outlined by the Nigerian Constitution.
“As lawmakers, we have the constitutional right to oversight and checkmate the activities of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the state government. The purpose of this oversight is not to witch-hunt but to promote good governance and ensure that MDAs perform optimally for the benefit of Deltans,” Onwo said.
He emphasized that the health sector plays a pivotal role in the success of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda, urging top officials of the health institutions to live up to their responsibilities. Hon. Onwo also highlighted the need for MDAs to access funds appropriated to their institutions and consistently provide quality healthcare services to Deltans.
Accompanied by other committee members, including Hon. Festus Okoh, Perkins Umukoro, and Matthew Omonade, Hon. Onwo further stressed the importance of prudent expenditure. He advised MDAs to seek necessary approvals from relevant authorities before spending, in accordance with legal provisions.
The lawmaker highlighted observations from the financial records of each institution, emphasizing the need for accuracy and transparency to prevent discrepancies. While commending some institutions for accessing their budgetary allocations, he urged all to make proper use of funds to address pressing challenges in the health sector.
Hon. Onwo also encouraged the health institutions to improve their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) performance and prepare for the next budget defense season with the committee.
Key officials who appeared before the committee included Dr. Paul Okubor, Permanent Secretary of the Hospitals Management Board (HMB); Dr. Augustine Obidi, Chairman and Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission; Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Chief Medical Director of the Asaba Specialist Hospital; and Dr. Peace Ighosevwe, as well as representatives from the Delta State College of Health Technology, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, and the Primary Health Care Development Agency.
