OVRODE/Nigeria: Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori inaugurated the establishment of the College of Health Technology in Ovrode, Isoko North Local Government Area, on Friday, addressing the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in the region.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the new College’s administrative building marks the second College of Health Technology in the state. Governor Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, announced that the institution would commence operations utilizing the existing structures of Ovrode Grammar School.
“Today’s flag-off of the School of Health Technology here in Ovrode is a significant step in fortifying our healthcare sector through the M.O.R.E Agenda. This institution will provide quality education and essential practical skills for healthcare professionals, who are in dire need in our state,” said Governor Oborevwori. “Currently, we have less than a thousand healthcare workers, whereas we need approximately seven thousand technical personnel to sustain our health sector. The establishment of this college aims to bridge this gap.”
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of dedication and commitment from the College’s management and staff to produce high-quality healthcare professionals. He stressed that healthcare is not only about treating illnesses but also about promoting wellness and preventing diseases to ensure the well-being of every citizen.
He also expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its partnership with the Delta State Government and commended the efforts of the Delta State Ministry of Health, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, and the Delta IMPACT Team for realizing this vision. He acknowledged the Ministry of Education’s support in providing Ovrode Grammar School for the College’s initial setup.
State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, highlighted that the project reflects the State Government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare education and infrastructure, aligning with Governor Oborevwori’s campaign promises. He noted that the College would be pivotal in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in Delta State and mentioned the state’s involvement in the Immunisation Plus and Malaria Progress By Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services Project (IMPACT).
Community leaders expressed their gratitude for the Governor’s initiatives. Comrade Simon Okata, President-General of Ovrode Community, thanked the Governor for appointing a community member as Commissioner for Health and for locating the College in Ovrode. He urged the Governor to construct the Ovrode – Aradhe Road to connect with the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway.
Prof. Chris Akpotu, President-General of the Isoko Development Union, praised Governor Oborevwori for establishing the College in Isoko and for the ongoing development projects, including the College of Medicine at Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, and improvements on the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway. He affirmed the Isoko community’s support for the Governor’s MORE Agenda aimed at advancing Delta State.
This new initiative is a strategic move to enhance healthcare delivery and ensure the sustainable prosperity and longevity of Delta State citizens.
