RESIDENTS of Sapele Local Government Area have commended the Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme for his remarkable strides in transforming the state’s health sector, particularly in revitalizing Central Hospital, Sapele, and enhancing primary health care services.
The residents also praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritizing health care, which has positioned Delta’s primary health care system as the best in the country.
Speaking with newsmen, community leaders and residents expressed their appreciation for the significant improvements in hospital infrastructure, medical equipment, and accessibility to quality health care across the state.
According to Chief Felix Ogirisen, a respected elder in Sapele, the transformation witnessed in the health sector is commendable. “For years, we struggled with inadequate health facilities, but today, things have changed. Central Hospital, Sapele, which was almost abandoned, is now being upgraded, and our primary health care centers are fully functional with improved services. Dr. Onojaeme and Governor Oborevwori have done well,” he said.
Another resident, Mrs. Christiana Ufuoma, a trader in Sapele Market, noted that primary health care services in the area have greatly improved. “Before now, we suffered to get medical attention, especially for our children and pregnant women. Many health centers had no drugs or doctors. But today, things are different. Health workers now attend to us properly, and we no longer have to travel far for treatment. We thank the commissioner and the governor for making this possible,” she stated.
It was gathered that since Dr. Onojaeme assumed office, there has been a renewed focus on equipping Central Hospital, Sapele, with modern medical facilities while ensuring that primary health care centers across the state function efficiently. Many health centers that were previously dilapidated have undergone major renovations, and medical supplies have been restocked to serve residents better.
However, despite these achievements, some residents have raised concerns about the attitude of certain medical personnel who are often absent from duty. They have called on the state government to set up a monitoring committee to ensure that doctors and nurses fulfill their responsibilities diligently.
Mr. Sunday Efetobor, a commercial bus driver, lamented that while the government has done its part, some health workers are sabotaging the progress. “It is frustrating when you go to the hospital, and doctors or nurses are not on duty. The government is working hard to provide good health care, but some workers are making things difficult for us. We need a monitoring team to check their activities,” he said.
A senior official at the Delta State Ministry of Health, who spoke on condition of anonymity, assured residents that the government is aware of the issue and is taking steps to enforce discipline among health workers. “The commissioner is committed to ensuring that every hospital and primary health care center functions effectively. Any doctor or nurse found to be neglecting their duties will face strict disciplinary measures,” the official said.
