By Sunday Apah
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has recognized Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his outstanding dedication to physician welfare and the enhancement of healthcare services in the state.
During a goodwill visit to the Government House in Asaba on Tuesday, NARD’s National President, Dr. Tope Osundara, referred to Governor Oborevwori as “a man of honour” and praised him for being the first governor in Nigeria to completely fund the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) for resident doctors.
Dr. Osundara, who awarded the governor with an Award of Excellence on behalf of his organization, stated that the MRTF payment represents a significant milestone that will greatly improve medical training and healthcare delivery to the community.
“The purpose of the MRTF is to equip resident doctors with the necessary knowledge and resources to excel in their examinations and training. When they return, they bring with them quality expertise, benefiting the community with superior healthcare. While many states are still struggling to meet these payments, Delta has already made it a reality,” he emphasized.
The NARD President also praised the state government for providing acculturation allowances, offering tax concessions to doctors, and investing in crucial medical infrastructure, including four CT scanners and an MRI machine in each senatorial district.
“Even in its prominence, Lagos has not achieved what I have observed and heard about Delta. For a state-owned hospital to be equipped with such facilities, Your Excellency, you truly deserve recognition,” Dr. Osundara asserted.
He further commended Governor Oborevwori’s administration for enhancing hospital access roads through a partnership with Julius Berger.
In his response, Governor Oborevwori expressed his gratitude for the visit, deeming it particularly relevant in light of NARD’s recent warning of a potential strike. He highlighted that Delta has fulfilled its obligations and should be exempted from any industrial actions.
“My administration ranks among the top three states in the country to fully fund medical residents. We are also the first to ensure that all resident doctors are compensated, regardless of their assignment location. We have upheld our commitments, and I believe Delta should not be subject to the warning strike,” the governor stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s collaborative relationship with the medical community, noting that every proposal from the Ministry of Health that has come to his attention has received approval.
Governor Oborevwori assured the doctors that the government is working on resolving the accommodation issues at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) in Oghara, emphasizing that funding is not the issue but rather adherence by contractors.
The governor expressed his confidence in the capabilities of Nigerian doctors, asserting that with adequate equipment, they could achieve excellence at home rather than pursuing lower-tier jobs abroad.
“Our doctors are of world-class calibre. What they require are modern tools. If we provide the necessary resources, they will thrive here instead of seeking lesser roles internationally,” he concluded.
