Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, Delta State, Dr Banye Salisu, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abel Nze Onunu and other Ndokwa leaders have hailed the establishment of the institution as a groundbreaking achievement, crediting Senator Ovie Omo-Agege for breaking decades of underdevelopment in the Ndokwa nation.
Speaking at the university’s groundbreaking ceremony, recently held at its permanent site between Kwale and Emu-Ebendo, the stakeholders applauded Omo-Agege’s efforts in securing the specialised medical institution.
Dr Salisu described the university as a major milestone, emphasising its importance not just for Delta State but for the entire South-South region.
“Today is a testimony to Senator Omo-Agege’s efforts. He lobbied for this university and while five others were created at the same time, this institution stands out significantly,” he stated.
He further stressed that the university is not limited to Delta State but is a regional institution meant to serve the entire South-South. “All states in this region are stakeholders and it is our collective responsibility to rally support for its development and successful takeoff,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the university’s significance, noting that it marks the first major Federal Government’s presence in Ndokwaland. “Before now, the only notable federal structure in this area was a colonial prison. For decades, Ndokwa has suffered neglect, and today, Kwale still lacks public power supply despite the numerous oil wells in the region,” he lamented.
He commended Omo-Agege for championing the institution’s establishment, stating that it represented the beginning of real development for the Ndokwa people. “For too long, our people have faced stagnation, but today, that chain has been broken. This university is a game-changer, and we are hopeful that more developmental projects will follow,” Onunu remarked.
Other Ndokwa leaders expressed gratitude to former President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the university’s establishment after Omo-Agege lobbied for it. They also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the university with a takeoff grant, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to the Ndokwa nation.
In his remarks, Senator Omo-Agege, who served as Deputy President of the 9th Senate, expressed joy in witnessing the project come to life.
He described the university’s establishment as a reflection of his unwavering commitment to development and transformation in Delta State.
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