- As Experts, Stakeholders Unite To Strengthen Response
BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
HEALTH experts, government officials, and community leaders gathered, yesterday, for a high-level Mpox stakeholders’ meeting, where it was announced that Delta State has confirmed six new cases of Mpox as of February 2025.
The meeting, a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS), Delta State branch and the State Ministry of Health, took place at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat.
It brought together diverse stakeholders to discuss the implementation of comprehensive strategies for the prevention, control, and management of the disease.
Speaking at the event, the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Mildred Okowa Igumbor, revealed that Delta State has recorded a total of 80 confirmed Mpox cases since 2017. The latest cases were reported in Ughelli North, Aniocha North, Oshimili South, Warri North, and Sapele.
She emphasized that the government was intensifying surveillance efforts and closely monitoring the situation to prevent further spread.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Philomena Okeowo, represented by the Director, Department of Medical Services and Training, Dr Chris Iwegbu, expressed deep concern over the increasing cases. She stressed the urgent need for vigilance, preparedness, and collaboration among stakeholders to curb the outbreak.
“Communities in Delta State rely on our services to protect their health and well-being. It is our duty to respond with urgency, expertise, and compassion,” she said. “Each of us plays a crucial role in the fight against Mpox. By sharing knowledge and aligning our efforts, we can build a resilient healthcare system that effectively addresses Mpox and other emerging health threats.”
The Chairman of the NRCS, Delta State Branch, Trainer Adolphus Anuagasi, commended all stakeholders for their commitment, calling for sustained collaboration to ensure the meeting’s objectives were met.
Similarly, the Disease Surveillance and Control Officer of the World Health Organization (WHO), Mr. Reagan Akuneto, lauded the organizers and pledged WHO’s continued support in addressing the outbreak.
Director of Program, Partnership Development and Humanitarian Diplomacy at Nigerian Red Cross Society, HQ Dr. ManirJega, expressed satisfaction in partnering with key stakeholders. During his presentation, he outlined NRCS’s mission, vision, and contributions to public health, highlighting the organization’s vast network of over 800,000 volunteers across Nigeria.
Assistant Director of Health and Care at NRCS, Dr. Gideon Adamu, urged participants to maximize the discussions, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in containing the disease. The Branch Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NRCS Delta State, Trainer Charles Arinomor, praised the dedication of all attendees.
“Your presence here demonstrates your unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health. Let us be bold in our ideas, collaborative in our approach, and innovative in our solutions,” he stated.
Arinomor also called for greater government recognition of NRCS as a critical stakeholder in the state’s health sector. He appealed for budgetary considerations for NRCS in 2026 to enhance its capacity in disease prevention and response.
He noted that with the government, health organizations, and community leaders working hand in hand, Delta State aims to build a robust response framework that not only addresses the current outbreak but also prepares for future health challenges.
