In a significant announcement reflecting the ongoing commitment to improving healthcare delivery, the Delta State Government has pledged to continue overhauling and upgrading primary health centres (PHCs) across the state in 2026. This promise underscores the administration's recognition of healthcare as a fundamental pillar of human development and societal progress. Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the Commissioner for Health, made this disclosure during a media briefing at his office in Asaba, where he reviewed the remarkable achievements of the Ministry of Health in 2025.
Dr. Onojaeme highlighted that Delta State currently operates 441 Primary Health Centres distributed across its three senatorial districts—Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South. In 2025 alone, the government successfully upgraded 150 of these facilities, marking a substantial step toward enhancing grassroots healthcare access. "We were able to upgrade 150 in 2025. We are not resting on our oars; more health centres will be attended to in 2026," the Commissioner emphasized, attributing these accomplishments to the unwavering dedication of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's administration to bolstering the health sector.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to make quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for all Deltans, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Primary health centres serve as the first point of contact for many residents, handling routine check-ups, immunizations, maternal and child health services, and basic treatments. By upgrading these facilities, the government aims to reduce the burden on secondary and tertiary hospitals, decrease travel distances for medical care, and ultimately improve health outcomes statewide.
The Commissioner's remarks also shed light on other major investments in the health sector. The Oborevwori-led administration has procured world-class medical equipment for secondary health institutions, significantly impacting the cost and availability of critical services. A notable example is the reduction in dialysis costs in government hospitals, which dropped from N70,000 to N45,000 per session. This subsidy has provided immense relief to patients suffering from kidney-related ailments, many of whom face financial hardships in managing chronic conditions. The procurement of advanced dialysis machines and related equipment has enabled this price cut, ensuring that life-saving treatments are within reach for more citizens.
Further elevating diagnostic capabilities, the State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the acquisition of three high-grade Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. These will be installed at key facilities: Central Hospital in Warri, Asaba Specialist Hospital in Asaba, and Delta State University Teaching Hospital in Oghara. Each machine is designated to serve one of the state's senatorial districts, promoting equitable access to advanced imaging technology that is rare even in some other Nigerian states. Dr. Onojaeme projected that these MRI machines would arrive and become operational in the first quarter of 2026, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances or seek services abroad for sophisticated diagnostics.
Addressing human resource challenges, the Commissioner noted persistent issues with manpower shortages due to retirements, deaths, or voluntary exits among health workers. To counter this, the government has proactively recruited qualified personnel to fill vacancies, ensuring continuity in service delivery. This recruitment drive is part of a holistic approach to strengthening the health workforce, which is essential for the effective operation of upgraded facilities.
Looking ahead, Dr. Onojaeme assured that all ongoing projects in the health sector would receive priority attention in 2026. He issued a stern warning to contractors: strict adherence to approved specifications and standards is non-negotiable, with severe sanctions for any deviations. This emphasis on quality control reflects the administration's determination to deliver durable, high-standard infrastructure that benefits generations of Deltans.
The positive impacts of these reforms are already evident. Maternal mortality and under-five mortality rates have seen significant declines, thanks to sustained routine immunization programs that prevent outbreaks of preventable diseases. The state's free maternal and child healthcare initiatives have contributed to these improvements, alongside enhanced infrastructure and equipment.
Beyond physical upgrades, the Oborevwori administration prioritizes the welfare of health workers. Recent approvals for corrected remuneration have resulted in substantial arrears payments, with doctors receiving between N500,000 and N1.8 million each. This "reverse remuneration" approach is a deliberate strategy to motivate and retain skilled professionals, acknowledging their critical role in manning health facilities.
Dr. Onojaeme urged residents to complement government efforts by adopting preventive health measures. "Routine medical check-ups and healthy living are key to keeping deadly diseases in check. We encourage all Deltans to make this a habit," he advised. By promoting regular screenings and lifestyle changes, the government hopes to shift focus from curative to preventive care, further reducing the strain on health resources.
These developments are part of a larger vision under Governor Oborevwori's M.O.R.E. (Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security) agenda. The 2026 budget proposals include substantial allocations for health—around N50 billion—to modernize facilities across PHCs, general hospitals, and tertiary institutions. This funding will support continued upgrades, equipment procurement, and operational enhancements.
Delta State's health sector transformations have garnered praise from professional bodies like the Nigerian Medical Association and resident doctors, who commend the administration for pioneering payments of medical residency funds and investing in cutting-edge technology. With over 2.7 million enrollees in the state's contributory health insurance scheme—the highest coverage in Nigeria—the foundation for universal health access is strengthening.
As 2025 draws to a close, the Delta State Government's resolve to build on these gains in 2026 signals a brighter future for healthcare. By prioritizing infrastructure, equipment, manpower, and affordability, the administration is not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the groundwork for a resilient, equitable health system that empowers every Deltan to live healthier lives. Residents are encouraged to utilize the improved services, as collective participation will maximize the benefits of these transformative reforms.
