The Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojame, has reassured medical professionals of the government’s unwavering commitment to improving their welfare and strengthening health facilities to create a conducive environment for effective service delivery.
Dr. Onojame gave the assurance during the 2025 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Asaba Zone, held at the Asaba Specialist Hospital. The conference, themed “Protecting the Guardians of Health: Breaking the Silence of Sudden Death Among Health Professionals,” brought together stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting medical practitioners.
Represented by Dr. Anthony Uwajei, the Health Commissioner said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is prioritizing the health sector through the continuous equipping and upgrading of medical facilities across the state to ensure world-class healthcare delivery.
He revealed that the governor has approved the purchase of three new MRI machines to reduce medical referrals and curb medical tourism. He also disclosed ongoing plans to establish an Oncology Centre to improve cancer care in the state.
Dr. Onojame noted that Delta State was the first in the country to implement the revised CONLESS, and assured doctors that the government remains committed to clearing the outstanding 13-month arrears. He described the conference sub-theme, “Mental Health and Well-Being of Doctors: A Neglected Priority,” as timely, urging medical practitioners to prioritize their own health.
He added that the state government will continue to support health workers and is already considering their requests for improved conditions of service. Dr. Onojame advised doctors to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, engage in regular exercise, and embrace a balanced diet to reduce cases of sudden death among professionals.
Speaking at the event, the State Chairman of the NMA, Dr. Israel Adaigho, and the Chairman of the Asaba Zone, Dr. Ossai Chukwuma, emphasized the need for health workers to prioritize self-care to avoid becoming victims of deteriorating health due to stress and burnout.
They described the conference as a call for reflection and action, urging medical personnel to confront the realities of exhaustion and recommit to safeguarding their physical and mental well-being.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Fredrick Aigbe expressed concern over the heavy patient load and inadequate staffing in many hospitals, a situation he said places excessive pressure on health professionals. He called on doctors to deliberately pay attention to their personal health even as they remain dedicated to saving lives.
In their goodwill messages, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, member representing Oshimili South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly; Dr. Peace Ighosewe, Chief Medical Director of Asaba Specialist Hospital; and Dr. Daniel Omodon, Managing Director of Group Christian Medical Center, Asaba, highlighted the importance of regular medical check-ups, exercise, and maintaining a positive work environment. They urged health workers to make intentional efforts to care for themselves and avoid practices that could create a toxic workplace, stressing that a healthy workforce is essential to quality healthcare delivery.
