Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District, has described the signing into law of the Bill establishing the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Oleh, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a historic milestone that will transform healthcare delivery and accelerate development across Delta South.
The law, sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo and passed by the National Assembly, provides for the establishment of the first federal tertiary healthcare institution in Delta South Senatorial District, a development the lawmaker said marks the beginning of a new era of equitable access to quality healthcare for the people of the oil-producing region.
Reacting to the presidential assent, Senator Joel-Onowakpo expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the legislation, describing the President’s action as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system and addressing longstanding developmental imbalances.
“This historic achievement represents a new dawn for the people of Delta South. It is a significant step towards improving access to quality healthcare and ensuring that our communities receive the federal presence they have long deserved,” the senator said.
He also commended the leadership of the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, as well as members of both chambers, for supporting the legislation through its successful passage.
The senator further acknowledged the contributions of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), and businessman Matthew Tonlagha for their encouragement and support throughout the legislative process.
According to him, the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre in Oleh, located in Isoko South Local Government Area, will significantly improve access to specialised healthcare services, reduce the burden on existing medical facilities, create employment opportunities, strengthen medical education and research, and stimulate economic activities within the district.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo noted that despite Delta South’s immense contribution to Nigeria’s economy through crude oil production, the district had for decades lacked a federal tertiary healthcare institution, describing the new law as a major step toward correcting that imbalance.
He said the achievement reflects the gains of purposeful representation and pledged to continue pursuing people-oriented legislation and developmental projects that would improve the quality of life of constituents.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to working with the Federal Government, the Delta State Government and other stakeholders to ensure the speedy take-off and successful implementation of the Federal Medical Centre, Oleh.
He also thanked the people of Delta South Senatorial District for their continued confidence, prayers and support, assuring them that more transformative projects would be attracted to the district in line with his commitment to inclusive development.
