Delta Govt, FG Sign MoU on Upgrade of Ovwian General Hospital to FMC

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery, as the state government on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government for the transfer of the General Hospital, Ovwian, to the newly established Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ovwian in Udu Local Government Area.

The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, described the MoU as a strategic milestone that will not only expand access to quality healthcare for Deltans but also deepen federal–state collaboration in the health sector.

“This development represents a major step forward in ensuring that our people have access to advanced medical services within their communities,” Dr. Emu said. “It aligns with our MORE Agenda of delivering meaningful development across critical sectors, particularly healthcare, where the needs of our citizens remain paramount.”

The historic signing took place at the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, with the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Kunle Salako, witnessing on behalf of the Federal Government.

Other dignitaries present included the Delta State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (SAN), senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Health, and the Medical Directors of FMC Ovwian and FMC Asaba.

Dr. Salako commended the Delta State Government for releasing the facility for federal upgrade, noting that the move would improve specialist medical services in the South-South and reduce pressure on existing federal health institutions.

The upgrade of Ovwian General Hospital to an FMC is expected to:

. Expand access to specialist medical services in Udu and neighboring LGAs.
. Attract federal funding and manpower for modern diagnostic and treatment facilities.
. Boost the training and retraining of healthcare professionals.

. Reduce patient referrals to distant federal institutions such as FMC Asaba and UBTH in Benin City.

The development comes as part of Governor Oborevwori’s broader effort to reposition healthcare delivery in Delta. Under his administration, investments have been directed towards upgrading general hospitals, rehabilitating primary healthcare centers, and expanding access to affordable health insurance.

Residents of Udu and adjoining areas have long clamored for improved healthcare access, given the population growth and industrial activities around Warri and Effurun. By becoming an FMC, the facility will be equipped to handle complex cases that previously required patients to travel to Asaba, Benin, or Lagos.

Healthcare analysts believe this transition will also spur economic activity in Udu by attracting medical personnel, support services, and infrastructural development around the FMC.

Governor Oborevwori stressed that Delta will continue to forge strategic partnerships with the Federal Government to ensure that citizens enjoy maximum benefits from their shared resources.

“This collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health is a demonstration of what is possible when we put the people first. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that no Deltan is denied access to quality healthcare because of location or affordability,” he said.

With the signing of the MoU, technical processes for the transition are expected to commence immediately, paving the way for the Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian, to begin operations in full capacity within the coming months.

The development marks another major milestone in the journey to achieving universal health coverage for residents of Delta State and beyond.