BY CLETUS NGWODO
THE Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Delta State Chapter, has expressed optimism that the newly approved Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, will boost manpower development, particularly medical professionals who had left the country in droves in search of the Golden Fleece.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba over the weekend, the state Chairman of the union, Comrade OnyemaOkonye, said that the new institution would, in a few years from now, begin to turn out medical professionals who will replace the depleting health workforce that have ‘japa’ abroad for what many had described as a quest for money.
The MHWUN leader, who commended President Bola Tinubu for the approval of such a unique institution in Delta State, also lauded the state Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, for the significant support so far, saying that the governor has demonstrated true leadership in providing a conducive atmosphere for the takeoff of the federal institution.
Besides providing a large expanse of land and other ancillary support for the new university, the Delta State Governor has promised full support, including the donation of a 30–seater bus, infrastructure and logistics to the university.
“As stakeholders in the health sector, MHWUN is happy to identify with the healthcare development in the state and would continue to collaborate with governments at all levels to ensure that Deltans get efficient and effective healthcare delivery system”, he said.
While appealing to medical personnel on the need to exercise restraint and halt the ‘japa’ syndrome, Comrade Onyema assured that the union in the state would continue to agitate for their welfare, saying that the state government is doing a lot to enhance the working condition of health workers in the state.
He said that the union will continue to collaborate with the state government in the quest to improve the fortune of health workers in the state and thanked the members for their diligent approach to duty and commitment to work.
