Delta gov affirms support for medical varsity

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the successful launch of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale. The governor made this pledge on Tuesday during a visit by the Governing Council and Management of the university, led by its Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Salisu Banye, to the Government House in Asaba.

Describing the university as a legacy project, Governor Oborevwori said it would significantly enhance access to quality education and healthcare delivery in the state. He stated, “As pioneers, you carry the heavy responsibility of putting this university on a solid footing. The task ahead demands sacrifice, hard work, commitment, dedication, resourcefulness, and selflessness. I am impressed with the progress you have made so far, and I encourage you to sustain the momentum.” He assured that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support, including infrastructure and logistics, to guarantee the university’s smooth take-off.

The government has already approved the use of the General Hospital, Kwale, as the initial teaching hospital, while efforts are underway to extend the electricity supply to the university campus. Oborevwori also reflected on past challenges of limited admission slots, which led to the establishment of additional state-owned universities during his tenure as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly. “Today, we are the only state in Nigeria with four state-owned universities, all of which are thriving and reducing pressure on admissions. With this new federal university, more opportunities will be created for our children,” he added. Highlighting Delta State’s reputation as an education hub, the governor pointed to the recent global debate award won by public school students in Doha, Qatar, as evidence of the state’s successful investment in quality education. He further promised to provide a 30-seater bus to the university.

Earlier, Dr. Banye, the Pro-Chancellor, expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering support, calling the establishment of the university a landmark achievement for both the state and the country. He said, “Your interventions, including the provision of classrooms, laboratories, offices, and 200 hectares of land for the permanent site, reflect your passion for infrastructure, quality education, and healthcare. This university will not only produce generations of competent medical professionals but also strengthen healthcare delivery and contribute to socio-economic growth.”

Dr. Banye disclosed that the university, established on March 6, 2023, is preparing for the National Universities Commission (NUC) resource verification, which will enable it to admit students into Medicine and Allied Health Sciences. He appealed for further government assistance to meet critical accreditation requirements and support for infrastructure development, including access roads, drainage, fencing, hostels, and a reliable power supply. The Pro-Chancellor commended Oborevwori’s foresight and leadership, expressing confidence that with his continued backing, the university would grow into a centre of excellence and a national model for effective medical education.

Source: https://punchng.com/delta-gov-affirms-support-for-medical-varsity/

Date: 3Sep25