Monarch pledges ₦5m medical supplies to Delta hospital

The Ovie of Udu Kingdom, Michael Ogheneovo Orugbo, has pledged a donation of ₦5 million worth of medical supplies to the Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian, in the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, to support the facility’s operations amid increasing patient demand for healthcare services.

The monarch gave the pledge during a visit to the FMC on Tuesday while he was received by the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Kingsley Akaba, alongside the hospital’s management team and staff.

The pledged ₦5 million medical support, according to the traditional ruler, “is expected to provide essential supplies aimed at improving patient care and easing operational pressure”.

The Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian, is one of the emerging Federal health institutions established to expand access to quality healthcare in Delta State.

Since commencing full operations in early 2026, the hospital has rapidly become a critical referral centre for communities lacking adequate medical infrastructure, amidst an upsurge in patient demand.

The visiting royal father, while commending the hospital management for maintaining services under challenging conditions, urged continued unity and dedication among staff.

He emphasized that every department within the hospital plays a critical role in delivering quality healthcare and called for sustained collaboration.

The monarch also encouraged staff to remain committed despite constraints, noting that constructive criticism should be embraced to improve service delivery.

He cautioned against unproductive criticism, urging a focus on solutions that advance the hospital’s mission.

Highlighting the spiritual dimension of care, the monarch reminded health workers that while they provide treatment, ultimate healing comes from God, offering prayers for wisdom and strength.

Speaking earlier, the CMD, Prof. Akaba, described the royal visit as “a significant morale booster for the hospital”, noting that the institution has continued to function despite limited infrastructure and equipment.

He said the commitment of staff—many of whom are indigenes of Udu Kingdom—has sustained operations since the centre began full medical services in January 2026.

According to him, the hospital now attends to over 1,000 patients monthly, reflecting growing reliance on the facility by residents in the Udu axis and surrounding communities.

The CMD stressed that the surge in patient numbers has exposed urgent needs, including additional buildings, modern diagnostic tools, and expanded treatment capacity.

The royal visit concluded with a guided tour of the facility, where the monarch inspected key departments and interacted with staff.

Culled from punch