Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has advised Nigerian doctors to remain in the country and build their careers rather than travelling abroad to take up caregiver jobs.
Oborevwori made the appeal on Tuesday in Asaba when the Delta chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), led by its chairman Dr. Israel Agadaigho, paid him a courtesy visit.
The governor praised doctors who have continued to serve despite the “japa” wave, noting that his administration was investing heavily in the health sector.
“It is better for our doctors to work in Nigeria and earn their respect than to go abroad and become care assistants,” Oborevwori said.
He highlighted recent health projects, including the purchase of eight dialysis machines for hospitals in Asaba, Warri and Oghara, and three new MRI machines to be shared across the senatorial districts. The governor also promised more upgrades to state hospitals and assured the NMA that their requests would be considered.
Earlier, NMA chairman Agadaigho commended the state government’s efforts in healthcare, pointing to achievements in primary health delivery, contributory health insurance, and mobile clinics for maternal and child care. He also listed the establishment of medical institutions in Ovrode, Ozoro and Onicha-Uku, as well as the renovation of over 150 primary health centres.
Agadaigho further acknowledged Delta’s early payment of medical residency training funds, provision of modern medical equipment, and the government’s work in infrastructure and pension clearance. He, however, raised concerns about manpower shortages in the health sector, pledging NMA’s continued collaboration with the state.
