By Sunday Apah
On Tuesday, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, accepted the generous donation of a six-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) from Pastor Chuks Agidigbo, which will be housed at the Central Hospital in Kwale.
Governor Oborevwori expressed his appreciation for the rarity of individuals who utilize their financial resources for the benefit of the community.
The donation, facilitated through the Chuks Agidigbo Leadership Foundation and Medast Limited, aims to enhance healthcare services in the Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State.
During the event, which was attended by various dignitaries, the Governor, represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, highlighted the significance of the donation, stating, “I am thrilled to stand with the Chuks Agidigbo Leadership Foundation and celebrate this humanitarian initiative at the Central Hospital, Kwale. It is not often that we see individuals invest their hard-earned money into the welfare of others.”
He noted that the newly established ICU aligns with the healthcare objectives of his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda. The facility is expected to significantly address the needs of patients requiring intensive care, especially during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. “This unit not only provides essential medical support but also eases the burden on healthcare workers,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori commended Pastor Agidigbo for his comprehensive approach in not just constructing the building but also equipping it with modern necessities, such as ventilators and patient monitoring systems. “Your dedication is a testament to true altruism and a determination to support the public good,” he remarked.
The governor emphasized the collaborative effort needed in providing essential infrastructure, stating that the responsibility should not rest solely on the government. He called for other organizations and individuals to follow this example and contribute to the welfare of the community.
Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the Commissioner for Health, voiced support for initiatives encouraging public-private partnerships in healthcare. Reading a statement on his behalf, Dr. Paul Oweh, Chairman of the Hospital Management Board, emphasized that the government’s role is to create an environment conducive to such collaborations in the quest for quality and affordable healthcare for the people of Delta State.
Pastor Chuks Agidigbo shared his inspiration for the donation, noting the essential role of private sector involvement in bolstering government efforts in healthcare and beyond. He recognized the shortcomings in infrastructure exposed by the pandemic and expressed his hope that more initiatives like this would emerge, potentially saving the government substantial expenses while addressing crucial healthcare needs.
The event also welcomed various officials and community leaders who commended Pastor Agidigbo’s significant contribution to enhancing the state’s healthcare system. Notable attendees included Senator Ned Nwoko, and representatives from various sectors, all of whom expressed their gratitude for the impactful donation.