By Ngozi Nwankwo
Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, and Rivers State government are fostering deep relationship in ensuring access to quality healthcare in Ogoni land.
This development was disclosed when the Rivers State Commissioner of Health, Hon. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh visited HYPREP Office.
Oreh said the main purpose of the visit was initially to express their gratitude to HYPREP for the commendable work being done to support the health and development of the people of Ogoni land.
She said, “Through our discussions today, we have learned much more about HYPREP’s contributions and efforts than we previously knew—especially about the Cottage Hospital and Specialist Hospital projects.”
“In alignment with the Rivers State Government’s health agenda, one of our key pillars is ensuring accessibility to quality healthcare for our people. Accessibility encompasses both geographical and financial aspects. HYPREP’s soon-to-be-commissioned Cottage and Specialist Hospitals in Ogoni land will greatly improve access to quality healthcare services in the area.
“From the Rivers State Government’s side, through the Ministry of Health and the Hospitals Management Board, we are committed to assisting HYPREP in ensuring these facilities deliver the quality services envisioned. Specifically, we discussed the deployment of skilled health professionals to the Cottage Hospital following its commissioning and formal handover.
“Regarding the Specialist Hospital, we await the strategic and operational framework from HYPREP’s Governing Council. Once outlined, we will align closely to support its successful operation”, he stated.
Speaking further, the Commissioner of Health said, “It is essential to emphasize that the Rivers State Ministry of Health is keen to work with HYPREP to ensure that the people of Ogoni land are not left behind in our broader pursuit of “health for all Rivers people,” which is a key component of His Excellency Governor Fubara’s healthcare agenda for the state.”
In his response, the Project Coordinator, HYPREP, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey said the visit signifies a shared vision toward actualizing comprehensive health interventions.
Zabbey said, “Our partnership with the Rivers State Government, particularly the Ministry of Health, has been cordial and highly productive. We greatly value this collaboration, as HYPREP alone cannot fully address the healthcare needs of Ogoni land. Since the facilities are ultimately owned by the state government, their involvement is critical to achieving our shared goals.”
