Delta Opens Cottage Hospital, Launches Free Medical Outreach for Residents
Korede Abdullah 
ASABA, Nigeria – The Delta State Government has inaugurated a newly completed cottage hospital in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area, while simultaneously launching a six-day free medical outreach to improve access to healthcare for residents.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, commissioned the facility on Tuesday.
The governor said the hospital would significantly reduce the burden on pregnant women, children and elderly residents who previously travelled long distances to access medical care.
“Access to quality, affordable healthcare should never be determined by where people live,” Oborevwori said.
Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Innocent Esewezie, said the free medical programme would provide consultations, treatment, surgical procedures, dental care and eye care services throughout the six-day exercise.
He explained that the project was initiated to improve access to basic healthcare and enhance the wellbeing of residents across the local government.
Esewezie also announced the enrolment of 200 residents into the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme.
The beneficiaries include 150 members of the Oshimili North Security Watch and 50 children living with special needs.
He disclosed that part of the newly inaugurated hospital had also been dedicated to providing specialised care and support for children with special needs.
Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr Isaac Akpoveta, encouraged local government councils across the state to enrol more residents into the health insurance programme.
Former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa commended the council chairman for executing the project, while the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Michael Ogbolu, described the hospital as a major relief for vulnerable residents.
Governor Oborevwori also urged residents to safeguard the facility, assuring them that his administration would continue partnering with proactive local governments to expand access to healthcare and other critical infrastructure across Delta State.
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