Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has urged Nigerian medical professionals to remain in the country and earn their respect, rather than seeking caregiver roles overseas.

The governor made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Delta State chapter, led by its chairman, Israel Agadaigho, on Tuesday in Asaba.

Commending the NMA for its commitment to quality healthcare, Mr Oborevwori lauded doctors who had continued to serve in Nigeria in spite of the lure of better opportunities abroad.

“It is better for our doctors to work in Nigeria and earn their respect than to go abroad and become care assistants,” he said.

He highlighted his administration’s investments in the health sector, including the procurement of eight dialysis machines, three each for Asaba Specialist Hospital and Central Hospital, Warri, and two for DELSUTH, Oghara.

He said in addition that three MRI machines were acquired, one for each senatorial district.

Mr Oborevwori reaffirmed his commitment to upgrading state hospitals with modern equipment and promised to consider the NMA’s requests.

Earlier, NMA state chairman, Mr Agadaigho, hailed the administration’s strides in healthcare delivery, including achievements in primary healthcare, the Contributory Health Scheme, and mobile clinics for maternal and child health.

He also cited the establishment of key institutions like the College of Health Technology, Ovrode; College of Medical Sciences, Southern Delta University, Ozoro; and the College of Nursing, Onicha-Uku.

He noted that more than 150 primary healthcare centres had also been renovated across the state.

Mr Agadaigho acknowledged the state’s leadership in paying medical residency training funds ahead of the federal government and the provision of 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners and MRI machines.

Beyond healthcare, he commended the administration for infrastructural projects, such as the Ughelli–Asaba Road dualisation, flyovers in Effurun and Warri, and the clearance of pension backlogs.

He pledged the NMA’s continued partnership with the government while also calling attention to the pressing issue of manpower shortages in the health sector.

(NAN)