By GOODNESS TORITSEJU MENE
Ugbuwangue community in Warri, Delta State, was agog on Tuesday as dignitaries, traditional rulers, and top government officials gathered to commission the Renewed Hope Mother and Child Specialist Hospital, an 80-bed, world-class facility built by the Federal Government through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking on behalf of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Chief of Staff Hon. Johnson Erijo hailed the project as “a beacon of hope and a critical step forward in achieving health-related sustainable development goals.” He assured that the hospital, now handed over to the Delta State Government, would be fully integrated into the state’s healthcare system under the M.O.RE Agenda, with strong commitment to staffing, maintenance, and efficient service delivery.
The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, in his royal charge, underscored the importance of the facility:
“Wealth is meaningless without health. Protect this facility, keep the access roads clear, and treat it as your own. This hospital speaks of the future because it is about mothers and children.”
He commended the late 20th Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli, for laying the foundation of the project, and lauded Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, SSA to the President on SDGs, for ensuring the hospital was built alongside staff residential quarters to support round-the-clock service delivery.
In her address, Princess Orelope-Adefulire described the project as far more than bricks and mortar:
“This hospital is not just a building; it is a promise fulfilled, a sanctuary of care, and a symbol of renewed hope.”
She thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising maternal and child health under his Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring that more people-centred interventions would follow across the country.
For Dr. Ekeneam Omo, Acting Medical Director of FMC Asaba under whose management the hospital commenced services in June 2024, the facility represents a bold leap in local healthcare. He pledged compassionate, high-quality care, highlighting its cutting-edge features — including emergency wards, intensive care units, a neonatal ward, an ultra-modern theatre, and staff quarters. He, however, appealed for additional support such as a CT scan machine, ambulance, and diagnostic expansion.
Dr. Mary Alile Idele, APC National Women Leader and FMC Asaba Board Chairman, also praised the hospital as “a beacon of hope for mothers and children.” She urged authorities to prepare for rapid expansion and provide solar power for uninterrupted service delivery.
Chairman of Warri South LGA, Comrade Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, rounded off with gratitude to President Tinubu, stressing that the hospital would help curb the area’s high maternal and child mortality rates:
“Until now, we only heard about the Renewed Hope Agenda. Today, we are seeing it live in Warri.”
The commissioning ended with prayers, goodwill messages, and celebration. For the people of Ugbuwangue and beyond, the Renewed Hope Mother and Child Specialist Hospital is not just another federal project, it is a life-saving investment and a powerful symbol of the government’s renewed commitment to healthcare equity.