The federal and Delta governments have pledged stronger collaboration to expand healthcare delivery, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding to establish a Federal Medical Centre in the state.

Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the junior health minister, stated on Monday in Abuja that the facility would become one of the leading medical institutions in Nigeria, serving Delta and its neighbouring states.

Mr Salako commended the Delta government for its significant investments in the health sector, including the acquisition of three helium-free MRI machines, the first in any government facility in the country.

“Delta is pioneering helium-free MRI technology in Nigeria, and we will closely monitor its performance to assess the benefits over conventional machines,” the minister said.

He noted that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, health had been prioritised as the foundation of productivity, leading to the rapid expansion of tertiary healthcare facilities nationwide.

“The FMC will provide specialised care so that no resident of Delta State will need to travel outside for treatment. It will also contribute to improved health indicators and reduce the hardships caused by ill health,” he added.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed Delta’s commitment to healthcare. He said that the state now operated 65 general hospitals, 441 primary healthcare centres, and three tertiary institutions under construction.

“Our contributory health scheme is one of the most inclusive in Nigeria, covering more than two million people, including 10,000 widows recently enrolled. The governor has ensured that maternal care and the informal sector remained at the heart of this scheme,” he stated.

The governor added that the deployment of MRI and CT scan equipment across secondary hospitals was aimed at reducing dependence on the private sector and ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

(NAN)