The Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Health has praised the rapid pace of development at the newly established College of Health Technology, Ovrode, located in Isoko North Local Government Area.
The committee commended the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration for taking bold steps to address the shortage of healthcare manpower in the state through the creation of the institution.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. (Chief) Ferguson Onwo, led members on an oversight visit to the college to assess the ongoing construction of administrative and academic facilities.
Onwo noted that the project is about 80% complete and lauded the significant progress achieved in a short period.
Hon. Onwo, who represents Isoko South 2 Constituency, expressed optimism that once completed, the college will expand educational opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals and help fill critical gaps in the state’s health sector workforce.
He thanked Governor Oborevwori for approving and funding the project, which commenced in November 2024, and for locating it in Isoko land.
He further disclosed that the Delta State House of Assembly has passed a bill granting the institution full legal backing as a standalone college, ensuring its sustainability and proper governance.
While encouraging the contractor to maintain the pace of work, Onwo emphasized the need to improve the perimeter fencing to complement the high-quality infrastructure being developed within the premises.
He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to supporting key development projects under the state government’s MORE Agenda.
Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, affirmed the ministry’s commitment to the swift completion of the college, commending the contractor for quality delivery.
He highlighted the urgent need for the institution, citing the significant loss of healthcare workers to migration abroad, which has strained the state’s health system.
Dr. Onojaeme revealed that Delta has 441 primary healthcare centers in need of personnel and noted that the state maintains the highest salary structure for health workers in the country to retain talent.
He also confirmed that academic activities would commence immediately after the project is completed and handed over.
Hon. Bernard Odior, member of the committee and representative of Isoko North, applauded the governor for bringing the college to his constituency and pledged to safeguard the institution’s interests.
He also thanked his colleagues for their swift passage of the enabling legislation.
Chief Daniel Odhomo, 2nd Vice President of the Isoko Development Union, expressed the community’s gratitude to the state government and promised continued political support from the Isoko people in appreciation of the gesture.
Mr. Kola Ijalana, representative of the contracting firm, reported that 80% of the work is complete and assured the lawmakers that the project would be delivered by April 2025.
He listed the project components, which include a new administrative building, classrooms, an ICT center, hostels, staff quarters, internal roads, green areas, and more.
