The people of Aladja community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State have honoured Francis Waive for his role in establishing the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ovwian. The community also celebrated Prof. Kingsley Akaba, a son of the community, following his appointment as the Chief Medical Director of the medical centre. The FMC is expected to expand access to medical services, create jobs and stimulate economic activities in the area.
At an appreciation ceremony organised by the community, leaders cited several contributions by Waive, including the fencing of Aladja Grammar School and construction of classroom blocks. The community expressed deep gratitude to Waive for his role in facilitating the establishment of the FMC and the appointment of Akaba as its CMD. Prof. Jomata Igben, the First Vice President-General of Aladja Community, spoke on behalf of the community.
The FMC has already become an important source of employment and economic activity, with close to 1,000 people reportedly engaged by the facility and paid by the Federal Government. Akaba said the initiative was organised to appreciate Waive for identifying the healthcare needs of the people and championing efforts that led to the establishment of the medical centre. The facility will improve access to healthcare and contribute to the socio-economic development of Udu and surrounding communities.
Akaba said the community’s appreciation was not limited to the political and administrative significance of the medical centre, but also reflected its potential to improve the quality of life of residents and strengthen economic activities in the area. He noted that the health needs of the people are enormous and that Waive had done more than just address them. The FMC alone has employed close to 1,000 people, and these workers are paid by the Federal Government.
Responding, Waive thanked the people of Aladja for the honour, describing the gesture as exceptional and encouraging. He said the recognition was particularly meaningful because public office holders are not always openly appreciated for their contributions. Waive said his efforts towards the establishment of the FMC were part of his responsibility to attract development and the dividends of democracy to his constituents.
Waive expressed excitement and gratitude to the people, his constituents, and those who sponsored the bill. He said it is the best part of being a lawmaker to serve the people and bring more dividends of democracy to the federal constituency. The community leaders expressed optimism that FMC Ovwian would become a major healthcare asset for Udu and adjoining communities.
The establishment of the FMC Ovwian is seen as a major boost to healthcare delivery in Udu and neighbouring communities. The community leaders and residents are optimistic about the positive impact of the medical centre on their lives. The FMC is expected to provide quality healthcare services and improve the overall well-being of the people.
Key points
- The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Ovwian has employed close to 1,000 people and is expected to expand access to medical services in Udu and neighbouring communities.
- The Aladja community is grateful to Francis Waive for his role in facilitating the establishment of the FMC Ovwian.
- Prof. Kingsley Akaba, a son of the community, has been appointed as the Chief Medical Director of the FMC Ovwian.
