Delta Govt Mulls Expansion of Free Medical Outreach to Riverine Communities

By Jennifer Eziashi/Judith Nkwor

The Delta State Government has directed the Ministry of Health to explore the expansion of free medical outreach services in riverine communities to improve access to healthcare.

The directive followed an encouraging response to a recent medical outreach organised for residents of communities affected by oil spillage.

Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the end of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.

Aniagwu, who was accompanied by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, said the initial outreach was organised following the governor’s visit to the affected communities, where he directed the provision of medical assistance to residents.

He said the exercise attracted residents from other communities who travelled to access the services after hearing about the programme.

According to him, the response prompted the governor to direct the Ministry of Health to consider making the outreach programmes more regular and extending them to other riverine communities.

The proposed expansion is expected to improve access to medical services for residents of riverine areas, although details of its implementation are yet to be announced.