The newly appointed Chairman of the Ondo State Hospitals’ Management Board (HMB), Dr. Olusegun Victor Ategbole, has declared zero tolerance for negligence, absenteeism, and unprofessional conduct in the state’s health sector.
Dr. Ategbole made this known during his inaugural strategic meeting with Chief Medical Directors (CMDs), Medical Directors (MDs), and Health Managers at the Medical House, Igbatoro Road in Akure.
The meeting was convened to outline his vision for revitalizing healthcare delivery across the state in line with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s EASE Agenda.
A seasoned U.S.-based medical consultant with over three decades of experience, Ategbole emphasized the importance of professionalism, discipline, accountability, and teamwork in delivering efficient healthcare services.
“Ondo State has no reason to lag behind in healthcare,” he said. “Our amiable Governor, His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has provided an enabling environment and is committed to making necessary resources available. With competent professionals in place, what we need now is renewed purpose, clear direction, and disciplined execution—and that is what I am here to lead.”
Dr. Ategbole stressed that the state must bridge the gap between healthcare policy and delivery, pledging to improve standards in all secondary healthcare facilities.
He stated that indifference and mediocrity would no longer be tolerated, adding that all health personnel must rise to the challenge.
“Our goal is simple: to become one of the most admired healthcare providers in Nigeria,” he said. “Negligence, absenteeism, and unprofessional conduct will no longer be acceptable. We are public servants, and the people of this state deserve our best every day.”
He called for collaboration and accountability among health leaders, quoting American industrialist Henry Ford: “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.”
Responding on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Permanent Secretary Dr. Ayodele Ojo Adiji praised Dr. Ategbole’s address as both inspiring and timely, assuring him of the Ministry’s full support in achieving lasting reform. Several MDs present also expressed commitment to adhering strictly to professional standards.
Stakeholders at the meeting commended Dr. Ategbole’s global experience and deep understanding of healthcare systems, describing his leadership as a new chapter for the sector in Ondo State—one focused on hard work, teamwork, and professionalism.
As part of his immediate plans, Dr. Ategbole announced that he and his team would embark on a state-wide tour of health facilities to conduct on-the-spot assessments.
