Delta Prioritising Primary Healthcare, Not Just Flyovers —Onojaeme

The Delta State Government has defended its healthcare investments, insisting that strengthening primary healthcare — not just building flyovers and major infrastructure — remains a top priority under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.

Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, made the clarification while responding to recent comments by popular Nigerian health influencer Aproko Doctor, who suggested that politicians often prioritise visible infrastructure projects over grassroots healthcare systems.

According to Onojaeme, the claim does not reflect the reality in Delta State, where healthcare development is being pursued alongside physical infrastructure.

Primary Healthcare Expansion Across Delta

The commissioner disclosed that within two years, the state government has renovated 150 primary healthcare centres across the three senatorial districts out of the state’s 441 health facilities.

He added that another 150 centres are already being scoped for upgrade, which will increase the number of renovated facilities to 300.

The initiative, he said, is designed to improve access to quality healthcare at the community level while reducing pressure on secondary and tertiary hospitals.

“That is not true in Delta State. While roads and flyovers are visible across the state, healthcare has always been a major priority of this administration,” Onojaeme stated.

Free Maternal Healthcare Programme Gains Momentum

Highlighting ongoing reforms, Onojaeme said the state’s free maternal and under-five healthcare programme continues to deliver positive outcomes, including reductions in maternal and infant mortality rates and improved financial relief for families.

He revealed that Governor Oborevwori recently approved the release of ₦2 billion to sustain the programme, alongside regular funding to strengthen Universal Health Coverage initiatives.

Hospital Autonomy, Dialysis Expansion and Reduced Costs

In a bid to improve service delivery, the commissioner said state-owned hospitals have been granted full autonomy to retain and utilise 100 per cent of their internally generated revenue. This, he explained, allows hospitals to quickly procure drugs, maintain equipment and respond to patients’ needs more efficiently.

Onojaeme also disclosed that dialysis machines have been installed across state hospitals, reducing treatment costs from about ₦70,000 to ₦45,000 per session and improving access for patients.

CT Scan, MRI and Advanced Diagnostic Investments

The state has expanded access to specialised healthcare through the installation of CT scan machines at Warri Central Hospital and Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, improving diagnosis of cancer, stroke and internal injuries.

Additionally, echocardiography machines are strengthening early detection of heart-related conditions.

To further enhance advanced medical imaging, the commissioner said three MRI machines have been ordered for Asaba Specialist Hospital, Central Hospital Warri and DELSUTH Oghara.

“While some states do not have a single MRI machine, Delta State is procuring three at once. Delivery is expected by April, as site preparations are already ongoing,” he said.

New College of Health Sciences to Boost Workforce

Beyond infrastructure and equipment, Onojaeme said the state government is establishing a new College of Health Sciences at Ovrode in Isoko North Local Government Area to complement the existing institution at Ofuoma and strengthen training for middle-level health manpower.

Expanding Health Insurance Coverage in Delta

He further highlighted the success of the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme, noting that enrollment has surpassed 2.78 million residents as of January 2026, making it one of Nigeria’s leading state-supported health insurance programmes.

The scheme covers both formal and informal sector workers and prioritises vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five and the elderly, through the Equity Health Plan.

Recent expansion efforts include the enrollment of 10,000 widows and ongoing registration of indigent residents.

Commitment to Universal Health Coverage

Onojaeme reaffirmed the commitment of the Oborevwori administration to achieving Universal Health Coverage, stressing that the government remains focused on delivering affordable, accessible and quality healthcare services to all residents of Delta State.