SDU DVC, Prof. Obukoadata, CSP Imegwu others to lead Delta Online Publishers Forum Discussion Panel in Asaba Oct 21

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Professor Presley Ogheneruke Obukoadata; renowned journalist and media scholar, Comrade Norbert Chiazor, PhD; and Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Gladys Imegwu have been selected to lead a panel discussion at the 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF).

The conference, scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., will hold at David’s Event Centre, Government Reservation Area (GRA), Asaba, Delta State, under the theme, “Democracy Under Pressure: Electoral Integrity, Security Challenges, and Media Accountability.”

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, is expected to attend as the Special Guest of Honour, highlighting the importance of discussions on democratic governance, public security, credible elections and media accountability.

The gathering is expected to bring together media practitioners, communication scholars, security professionals, public officials and other stakeholders to examine the relationship between electoral credibility, public safety, responsible journalism and democratic accountability in Nigeria.
Professor Obukoadata, an accomplished communication scholar, strategic communication expert and academic administrator, currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Brand, Strategic and Metacommunication at Southern Delta University, Ozoro. He is also Dean of the Faculty of Communication Technology and previously pioneered the institution’s Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.

With academic qualifications in Mass Communication from Delta State University, Abraka, and the University of Uyo, Obukoadata has built an extensive career across several higher institutions, including the University of Calabar, American University of Nigeria, Yola, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, and the National Open University of Nigeria.
His research interests include strategic communication, brand management, crisis communication, media ecology, artificial intelligence, development communication and public relations. With more than 50 publications in journals, books and book chapters, his scholarship and professional engagements have established him as a contributor to discussions on media innovation, digital transformation and communication in governance.

His contribution to the panel is expected to provide an academic and strategic communication perspective on the role of the media in protecting electoral integrity, countering misinformation, promoting informed public discourse and holding institutions accountable in a democracy increasingly influenced by digital communication and emerging technologies.
Also bringing substantial professional experience to the discussion is Comrade Norbert Chiazor, PhD, a distinguished journalist, communication scholar, writer and media administrator popularly known as the Wordsmith.
A graduate of English and Literature from the University of Benin, Chiazor also holds a degree in Mass Communication from Delta State University, Abraka, as well as master’s and doctoral degrees in Mass Communication from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

His broadcasting career included service at the former Bendel Broadcasting Service, Benin City, and the Delta Broadcasting Service, Warri, where he rose to become Deputy General Manager and Head of News and Current Affairs.

His professional experience also extends to freelance journalism with prominent local and international media organisations, including The Guardian, National Concord, South Africa’s Mail & Guardian, The Irish Times, The Sowetan and The International Herald Tribune.

Chiazor, publisher of The Nigerian Post, served as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, from 2011 to 2017. His tenure featured infrastructure development and professional capacity-building initiatives, including the advancement of the NUJ Press Centre project and the training of Delta journalists at the Reuters Journalism Institute in London.

He has also served as Executive Assistant on Media to former Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, and currently holds the same position under Governor Oborevwori.
His experience in journalism, newsroom leadership, media management and government communication is expected to enrich discussions on media independence, professional ethics, fact-based reporting and the responsibility of journalists and online publishers to provide accurate information, scrutinise public institutions and resist misinformation during electoral periods.
The third panellist, CSP Gladys Imegwu, is the Officer in Charge of Legal Matters at the Delta State Police Command. Her responsibilities place her at the intersection of law enforcement, criminal investigation, legal oversight and the administration of justice.

Imegwu has emphasised the importance of professional investigative procedures, respect for due process and the protection of suspects’ rights. She has also advocated improved security manpower and operational capacity, while underscoring the need for cooperation among security agencies and justice sector institutions to strengthen accountability and effective law enforcement.

Her participation is expected to bring a critical security and legal perspective to the conference theme, particularly regarding the responsibility of security agencies to protect lives and property, maintain peace, enforce the law impartially and safeguard citizens’ rights during elections.
Her experience will also be relevant to examining relations between the police and the media, including the need for responsible information sharing, accurate reporting of security incidents and mutual respect for professional responsibilities in the interest of public safety and democratic stability.

The selection of the three panellists, whose professional backgrounds span academia, journalism and policing, reflects the multidimensional approach required to address the pressures facing democratic governance.

Their contributions are expected to provide participants with complementary perspectives on electoral integrity, security preparedness, media responsibility and institutional accountability.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with questions of electoral credibility, public trust, security challenges and the influence of digital information, the DOPF conference will provide a platform for critical reflection on how the media, security agencies and other democratic institutions can strengthen public confidence in the democratic process.

The theme also underscores the importance of balancing media freedom with professional accountability, ensuring that electoral information is accurate and verifiable, and promoting constructive engagement between journalists and public institutions without compromising the media’s watchdog responsibility.
The 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series forms part of DOPF’s continuing engagement with issues central to journalism, public communication, democracy and responsible media practice.

With Governor Oborevwori expected as Special Guest of Honour and the participation of distinguished professionals from academia, journalism and law enforcement, the Forum is positioning the conference as a platform for informed dialogue on the responsibilities of key institutions in protecting electoral integrity, addressing security challenges and strengthening democratic accountability.

Egware Hails Lady Ejiro Umukoro at 50

Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Media, Dr Nelson Egware, has congratulated renowned journalist, acclaimed author, and media entrepreneur, Lady Ejiro Umukoro, on her 50th birthday.

In a congratulatory message on Tuesday, Egware described Umukoro, from Isoko and Urhobo extraction, as a distinguished media professional and mentor whose contributions to journalism, investigative reporting and creative enterprises have earned her national and international recognition.

Umukoro is the President and Publisher of LightRay Media, Books and Creative Society. She is a recipient of the Distinguished Changemaker Award of the United States Agency for Global Media and the British Council International Communications Award.

She is also an Agora Policy Fellow, a Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism Report Women Leadership Fellow and a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors.

Author of Nigeria’s Bestselling Investigative driven novel in Nigeria, The DISTORTION Series, approved as the literature text by Delta State Ministry of Education, her Longform narrative has contributed to the abolition of Osu in some communities in Eastern Nigeria as well as led to the sentencing of the killers of Elozino.

Egware said Umukoro’s professional accomplishments and commitment to media development, mentorship, and talent development reflected her dedication to impactful journalism, leadership and positive social change.

He wished her good health, greater accomplishments and continued success, expressing confidence that her contributions to journalism, the creative economy, education and society would continue to inspire younger generations of media practitioners.

Delta COMTOA Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori, APC Candidates ahead 2027

The Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association (COMTOA) in Delta State has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 general elections.

The endorsement was adopted following a motion moved by the association’s State Treasurer, Comrade Prince Miller, and seconded by the State Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Afatakpa.

The association, with more than 25,000 riders across the state, announced its endorsement during a solidarity visit to the Delta State Government House, Asaba, on Friday.

Leader of the delegation, Chief Godday Obi Nzete, said the association endorsed President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori and other APC candidates in appreciation of what he described as the administration’s support for the welfare and interests of its members.

Nzete said motorcycle and tricycle operators had enjoyed greater recognition and accommodation under the Oborevwori administration, saying; “we want to appreciate them for their good work and for the support they have given us as an association in this state”.

He described the solidarity visit as an opportunity for the association to reciprocate the government’s support, adding that many of its members had experienced improved livelihoods under the present administration.

According to him, although only a fraction of the association’s estimated 25,000 members participated in the visit, COMTOA would organise a statewide mobilisation to demonstrate its support for the governor and other APC candidates.

“We are ready to set aside a day to mobilise our members across the entire state in support of Sheriff and all APC candidates, from the presidency down,” Nzete said.

Speaking during the visit, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Kingsley Emu, urged members of the association to intensify grassroots mobilisation in support of Tinubu, Oborevwori and other APC candidates ahead of the elections.

Emu charged the operators to use their extensive network across communities and their daily interactions with passengers to communicate the party’s message and mobilise support for its candidates.

“The job has just started. Go back to your units and continue preaching the good news,” he said.

The SSG also disclosed that the state government had recruited and equipped 1,000 forest guards to combat criminal activities and flush out criminals from forests across the state.

He said the initiative was aimed at strengthening security, creating a safer environment for residents and enabling farmers to return to their farms without fear.

On his part, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Onoriode Agofure, commended COMPTOA for its support, noting that the Oborevwori administration had done much to subsidise daily tickets for riders, making them among the cheapest in the country.

The State Director of Protocol, Chief Sunday Onoriode, described the visit as a demonstration of loyalty to the Oborevwori administration and evidence of the APC’s grassroots support.

Onoriode said the governor had made significant contributions to the development of Delta State since assuming office, noting that peace and security were particularly important to commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators whose livelihoods depended on daily movement across communities.

He also commended the administration’s attention to road infrastructure and the welfare of transport operators, describing the relative stability within the association as encouraging.

Also speaking, the APC State Organising Secretary, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor, commended Tinubu for his economic policies, which he said had improved the availability of funds to state and local governments for development projects.

Egbabor urged the operators to support the APC, saying the party’s policies and the increased resources available to governments would enhance their capacity to meet the needs of the people.

Those present included the Chief of Staff, Government House, Prince Johnson Erijo; the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Onoriode Agofure; the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu; the Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor; the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon; and the Director-General of the State Orientation Bureau, Mr Fred Latimore alongside other government officials and party stakeholders.

FG Orders Reconstruction Of Benin-Asaba Highway, Reopens First Niger Bridge After Major Rehabilitation

The Federal Government has reopened the First Niger Bridge linking Asaba, Delta State, and Onitsha, Anambra State, following extensive rehabilitation works aimed at improving structural safety, strengthening security and restoring seamless vehicular movement between the South-South and South-East geopolitical zones.

Speaking during the opening on Thursday in Onitsha, Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the intervention as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to maintaining critical national infrastructure and improving transportation across the country.

Umahi said the rehabilitation became necessary following reports of structural concerns, including the alleged removal of bolts from the bridge’s steel components, inadequate maintenance and activities capable of undermining its structural integrity.

He explained that the Federal Government responded by undertaking repairs, installing solar-powered streetlights and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras, improving the road surface and introducing traffic management measures to enhance safety.

According to him, the intervention also included the installation of median barriers and the creation of three designated turnaround points to facilitate traffic management during emergencies and vehicle breakdowns.

The Minister disclosed that security observation centres were being established at both ends of the bridge to enable continuous monitoring of activities on and beneath the structure.

He said the measures were particularly important given the age of the bridge and the need to protect it against excessive loading, traffic congestion and other activities that could compromise its durability.

Umahi also warned against indiscriminate sand dredging around bridges, stressing that Federal Government regulations prohibit dredging within a 10-kilometre radius of federal bridges.

He expressed concern that dredging activities were allegedly taking place dangerously close to the First Niger Bridge and directed relevant federal officials in Delta and Anambra states to ensure immediate enforcement of the restriction.

The Minister warned that disciplinary measures would be taken against officials who failed to address the situation.

Speaking on the deteriorating condition of the Benin-Asaba Expressway, Umahi announced that President Tinubu had directed a comprehensive redesign of both highways ahead of its reconstruction.

He disclosed that the Federal Government had cancelled an ongoing remedial contract covering the first 11 kilometres of the Benin-Asaba road over dissatisfaction with the quality of work.

The Minister expressed confidence that the intervention would address the persistent difficulties experienced by motorists and commuters along the busy transportation corridor.

Umahi also announced plans for the reconstruction of approximately 400 kilometres of the East-West Road, which he said would serve as a spur of the 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

He maintained that the Federal Government remained committed to completing major road projects across the Niger Delta and South-East, including sections of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge bypass.

According to him, the 17.5-kilometre Second Niger Bridge bypass project, valued at approximately N172 billion, was already under construction.

The Minister said the Federal Government would continue to prioritise infrastructure development, describing road connectivity as essential to economic growth, regional integration and national development.

In his remarks, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, commended President Tinubu for responding promptly to concerns about the condition of the bridge.

Oborevwori said the intervention demonstrated the importance of establishing a sustainable maintenance culture for public infrastructure rather than waiting for facilities to deteriorate before taking action.

He observed that the Minister’s three consecutive visits to the bridge within two months underscored the Federal Government’s attention to its rehabilitation.

“If this bridge is allowed to collapse, it will not just affect the movement of people between the South and the East; it will also affect the economies of both regions,” he said.

Oborevwori noted that the rehabilitation went beyond improving the physical appearance of the bridge, stressing that the intervention would enhance the safety of commuters, facilitate trade and strengthen connections among communities.

“The fact that the bridge is wearing an entirely new look today is not just about beauty. It is also about the safety of those who commute across this bridge, linking communities, connecting cultures and making businesses thrive,” he stated.

The Governor expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the Minister of Works for addressing public concerns about the bridge’s safety.

Oborevwori described the intervention as an example of responsive governance, stressing that protecting existing infrastructure was as important as constructing new projects.

Similarly, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, described the rehabilitation as a significant intervention that would strengthen the bridge and extend its useful life.

Speaking on behalf of the Asaba community, the monarch commended President Tinubu and Umahi for ensuring the completion of the rehabilitation works.

He said the bridge occupied an important place in the economic and social relationship between Delta and Anambra states, as well as the wider South-South and South-East regions.

“This may be the second most comprehensive intervention made so far on this bridge since its construction shortly before the Civil War,” Azinge said.

Ex 3SC Boss, Olaniyan Mourns Crown FC Driver, Prays for Comfort for Bereaved Family

Former 3SC Chairman Rt. Hon. Babatunde Olaniyan, popularly known as Akoro, has expressed profound sadness over the tragic death of a driver attached to Crown Football Club following an unfortunate accident involving the team on its way to a pre-season tournament.

The ex , Deputy Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly who is the Chairman of the College of Health Service and Technology, Eleyele, Ibadan, and a former Chairman of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), described the incident as a painful loss, extending his heartfelt condolences to the management, players, officials, and the bereaved family of the deceased.

In his condolence message, the former 3SC helmsman lamented that the unfortunate incident had brought grief to the Crown FC family, noting that the loss was difficult to bear and that words alone could not adequately express the depth of sorrow occasioned by the tragedy.

The former NPFL referee sympathised with the management and entire team of Crown FC, as well as the immediate family of the deceased, urging them to find strength and comfort in God during this difficult period.

Olaniyan prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed eternal rest and give the bereaved family, club officials, players, and all those affected by the incident the courage to overcome the painful experience.
He also prayed for the speedy recovery of anyone who sustained injuries in the accident, asking God to heal wounded hearts, uphold the affected individuals, and restore peace and comfort to the Crown FC family.

“May the Lord heal every wounded heart, uphold everyone affected by this tragedy, and grant a speedy recovery to anyone injured in the accident,” he said.
The former 3SC chairman further urged the bereaved family and the entire Crown FC community to accept his deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers, expressing hope that God’s divine presence would bring them peace and consolation in their moment of grief.
He concluded his message with a prayer for the peaceful repose of the deceased, saying, “May the soul of the departed rest in perfect peace. Amen.”

The tragic incident has cast a shadow over Crown FC’s preparations for the pre-season tournament, with prayers and condolences expected to provide comfort to the club and the family of the deceased as they navigate this difficult period.

Credit :Sunday Agunbiade (Mr VAR)

Oborevwori’s Special Adviser, Dr. Agbolaya Congratulates Comrade Oyowe on His Re-election As Delta NUJ Chairman

By: Celestine Ukah 

The Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Community Development, Amb. Dr. Toyin Agbolaya, FNIM, has congratulated Comrade Churchill Oyowe on his re-election as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council.

In a congratulatory message on Thursday, October 15, shortly after the election, Dr. Agbolaya said Oyowe’s second term mandate is well deserved to pilot the affairs of the Union forward.

According to the Special Adviser, Comrade Oyowe’s re-election is a true reflection of his purposeful leadership, commitment to press freedom, and dedication to the welfare of journalists in Delta State.

According to Dr. Agbolaya, It shows the confidence and capacity his colleagues reposed in him.

Dr. Agbolaya expressed confidence that Comrade Churchill Oyowe will consolidate on the gains of his first tenure and further reposition the Delta NUJ for greater professionalism and unity, while wishing him a successful and impactful second term in office for the good of all journalists.

Amb. Agbolaya a Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Management, FNIM also urged those who contested and did not succeed to join hands with Comrade Oyowe to move the NUJ in Delta forward, while charging Comrade Oyowe to work with all for the unity and progress of the Delta NUJ.

Oborevwori Hails Comrade Oyowe On Re-election As Delta NUJ Chairman

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Comrade Churchill Oyowe on his re-election as Chairman of the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Oyowe secured 235 votes to defeat his sole challenger, Comrade Kenneth Obieh, who polled 218 votes in the keenly contested election.

Oborevwori in a statement issued on Friday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described the election as free, fair and credible, noting that the close margin between the candidates reflected the competitive nature of the contest.

The Governor congratulated Oyowe on his victory and expressed confidence in his capacity to continue to provide purposeful leadership for the union and promote professionalism in journalism.

Others who also won are; Comrade Patrick Ochei Vice Chairman after polling 241 votes to defeat Comrade Monday Osayande, who secured 173 votes, Comrade Felix Ekwu emerged State Secretary with 273 votes, defeating Comrade Pere Botu, who polled 202 votes and Comrade Josephine Omodior was elected Assistant State Secretary after scoring 264 votes to defeat Comrade Andy Emephia, who secured 188 votes.

Those returned unopposed are; Caroline Ubini – Treasurer, Comrade Toju Oteri – Financial Secretary and Comrade Michael Ilaya – Auditor.

Oborevwori said; “On behalf of my family, the Government and people of Delta State, I congratulate the Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, and all members of the newly re-elected State Working Committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council.

“Your re-election is a clear vote of confidence by your colleagues. It shows they trust your leadership, your integrity and your capacity to continue to lead.

“Lead everybody, not just those who voted for you. The election is over. Now is time for unity. Bring everybody together. I urge you to extend a hand of fellowship to your opponent. Delta NUJ must remain united under your leadership”.

**Describes His Second Term Mandate as Well Deserved

By: Celestine Ukah 

The Member representing Warri Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives and Chairman House Committee on Petroleum Resources Training Development Trust Funds, Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, has congratulated Comrade Churchill Oyowe on his re-election as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council.

In a congratulatory message Thursday October 15 shortly after the Election, Chief Ereyitomi described Oyowe’s second term mandate as well deserved to pilot the affairs of the Union forward.

According to the Federal Lawmaker, Comrade Oyowe’s re-election is a testament to his purposeful leadership, commitment to press freedom, and dedication to the welfare of journalists in Delta State. It shows the confidence his colleagues reposed in him.

Hon. Chief Ereyitomi expressed confidence that Comrade Churchill Oyowe will consolidate on the gains of his first tenure and further reposition the Delta NUJ for greater professionalism and unity, while wishing him a successful and impactful second term in office.

Rep Ereyitomi also urged those that contested and didn’t win to join hands with Comrade Oyowe to move the NUJ in Delta forward, even as he urged Comrade Oyowe to work with all for unity and growth of the Delta NUJ.

Just In: Churchill Oyowe Re-Elected NUJ Delta Chairman, gets Second Term mandate

Comrade Churchill Oyowe has been re-elected Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, after defeating his closest rival, Comrade Kenneth Obieh, in the council’s election.

Oyowe, who contested under the Consolidation Team, will return for a second term after serving as the incumbent council Chairman.

His victory marks a fresh mandate for the sitting chairman, who secured the support of journalists across the state to defeat Kenneth Obieh in the keenly contested election.

The outcome of the election paves the way for Comrade Oyowe to continue leading the NUJ Delta State Council for another term of three years with expectations that his administration will consolidate on its previous achievements and advance the interests of journalists in Delta’ state.

Cancer Care: Delta Trains 50 Doctors Ahead of Osubi Specialist Hospital Launch

The Delta State Government has trained more than 50 medical doctors in cancer care, early detection and referral procedures as part of efforts to expand access to specialised oncology services in the state.

The training comes ahead of the planned introduction of advanced cancer treatment services at the Osubi Specialist Hospital, which is being constructed by the state government to reduce the need for patients to travel outside Delta for specialised medical care.

The one-day capacity-building programme, organised by the Department of Medical Services and Training in the State Ministry of Health, was held on Wednesday at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat, Asaba.

Speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, said the initiative was designed to strengthen the capacity of frontline doctors to recognise cancer symptoms, conduct appropriate initial assessments and refer suspected cases promptly to specialists.

Onojaeme, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Gloria Ferife, said the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was investing in specialised healthcare infrastructure and human resources to improve access to quality medical services.

He said the Osubi Specialist Hospital would provide advanced healthcare services, including state-of-the-art oncology facilities, to bring specialised cancer treatment closer to residents and reduce the burden of seeking care outside the state.

The commissioner also disclosed that the government was investing in modern medical equipment, revitalising primary healthcare centres and strengthening the health workforce.

He added that approval had been granted for the recruitment of more than 700 health workers to improve healthcare delivery across the state.

According to him, the approval of the tax-free MORE Specialist Allowance for doctors was another measure aimed at attracting, motivating and retaining medical professionals in the state’s health system.

He urged the participating doctors to improve their knowledge of cancer warning signs, ensure timely referrals and maintain comprehensive clinical records to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Onojaeme stressed that investment in specialised hospitals must be complemented by an efficient referral system that enables patients to access appropriate care without avoidable delays.

Earlier, the Director of Medical Services and Training, Dr. Uwomano Oghounu, said early detection, accurate diagnosis and prompt referral were critical to improving cancer treatment outcomes.

He explained that the training was intended to equip the doctors with the knowledge and practical skills required to identify suspected cancer cases, make informed clinical decisions and refer patients to the appropriate specialists.

Oghounu also emphasised the importance of proper medical documentation, effective communication among healthcare professionals and continuity of care, urging participants to apply the knowledge acquired in their daily clinical practice.

A Consultant Radiologist at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr. Daniel Isoje, commended the initiative and urged medical practitioners across the state to familiarise themselves with the planned oncology services and the referral procedures for accessing them.

Isoje said the availability of specialised cancer services within Delta would help address some of the difficulties patients encounter when seeking treatment outside their immediate environment.

The initiative underscores the importance of combining investment in specialised healthcare facilities with professional training and effective referral systems to improve early cancer detection and access to treatment across the state.

Ahead of Osubi Specialist Hospital Launch

The Delta State Government has trained more than 50 medical doctors in cancer care, early detection and referral procedures as part of efforts to expand access to specialised oncology services in the state.

The training comes ahead of the planned introduction of advanced cancer treatment services at the Osubi Specialist Hospital, which is being constructed by the state government to reduce the need for patients to travel outside Delta for specialised medical care.

The one-day capacity-building programme, organised by the Department of Medical Services and Training in the State Ministry of Health, was held on Wednesday at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat, Asaba.

Speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, said the initiative was designed to strengthen the capacity of frontline doctors to recognise cancer symptoms, conduct appropriate initial assessments and refer suspected cases promptly to specialists.

Onojaeme, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Gloria Ferife, said the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was investing in specialised healthcare infrastructure and human resources to improve access to quality medical services.

He said the Osubi Specialist Hospital would provide advanced healthcare services, including state-of-the-art oncology facilities, to bring specialised cancer treatment closer to residents and reduce the burden of seeking care outside the state.

The commissioner also disclosed that the government was investing in modern medical equipment, revitalising primary healthcare centres and strengthening the health workforce.

He added that approval had been granted for the recruitment of more than 700 health workers to improve healthcare delivery across the state.

According to him, the approval of the tax-free MORE Specialist Allowance for doctors was another measure aimed at attracting, motivating and retaining medical professionals in the state’s health system.

He urged the participating doctors to improve their knowledge of cancer warning signs, ensure timely referrals and maintain comprehensive clinical records to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Onojaeme stressed that investment in specialised hospitals must be complemented by an efficient referral system that enables patients to access appropriate care without avoidable delays.

Earlier, the Director of Medical Services and Training, Dr. Uwomano Oghounu, said early detection, accurate diagnosis and prompt referral were critical to improving cancer treatment outcomes.

He explained that the training was intended to equip the doctors with the knowledge and practical skills required to identify suspected cancer cases, make informed clinical decisions and refer patients to the appropriate specialists.

Oghounu also emphasised the importance of proper medical documentation, effective communication among healthcare professionals and continuity of care, urging participants to apply the knowledge acquired in their daily clinical practice.

A Consultant Radiologist at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr. Daniel Isoje, commended the initiative and urged medical practitioners across the state to familiarise themselves with the planned oncology services and the referral procedures for accessing them.

Isoje said the availability of specialised cancer services within Delta would help address some of the difficulties patients encounter when seeking treatment outside their immediate environment.

The initiative underscores the importance of combining investment in specialised healthcare facilities with professional training and effective referral systems to improve early cancer detection and access to treatment across the state.