Oyibode Reaffirms Udu’s Readiness For Federal Medical Center Construction And Operation.
By Wilson Macaulay
Ovwian, Delta State – March 19, 2025 – A delegation from the Federal Government visited Udu Local Government Area of Delta State today March 19, 2025 for the official commencement of the Federal Medical Center (FMC) project located in Ovwian Community, Udu LGA, Delta State. The site inspection marks a significant step in the realization of a healthcare facility that is set to serve the people of Ovwian Community, Udu LGA and the wider Delta Central Senatorial District.
During the visit, the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, High Chief (Hon). Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, JP FCIA, “We are committed to providing a peaceful and supportive environment for this medical facility,” he stated.
He also assured the delegation from the Federal Government that security in the area is top-notch, emphasizing that Udu remains a peaceful and cooperative community. “Whether from the PDP or APC, we work together as one family. The peace we have built is strong,” said Oyibode, addressing concerns about land ownership. He clarified that all land in the area is under government control, and the use of the land for the FMC project is lawful and for the greater good of the people.
Highlighting the strategic location of the project, Oyibode pointed out that Ovwian’s central position between Ughelli South and North, with easy access to inland and waterfront areas, makes it an ideal site for the medical center. He also reassured the delegation that the Udu Kingdom is prepared to ensure their comfort and safety during the construction and after the facility’s completion. He said that the Federal Medical Center will start at the Otor-Udu General hospital first because it has equipments before it will move to Ovwian Community after the completion of the Permanent site.
Hon. Reverend Ejiroghene Francis Waive, Member Representing Udu, Ughelli South, and North Constituency at the House of Representatives, who moved the bill for the establishment of the FMC, expressed his joy at the fulfillment of what was once a distant dream. “Thanks to the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we now have a Federal Medical Center right here in Ovwian Community,” Waive said. He emphasized the strategic location of Ovwian Community, which provides easy access to coastal communities is well connected to Delta Central, one of the state’s most densely populated regions.
Waive also commended the support of the Ovwian and Udu communities, whose cooperation was key in making the project a reality. “The people of Ovwian and Udu have shown nothing but goodwill since the announcement of the bill,” he added.
Mr. Dele Okuku, President of Ovwian Community, echoed Waive’s sentiments, celebrating the milestone as a monumental achievement for both the people of Ovwian and the entire Delta State. He extended his gratitude to the people of Udu for their ongoing support and cooperation.
The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the local community. Mr. Okuku underscored key points for consideration in the project’s execution, including establishing cordial relationships between contractors and the host community, preferential patronage of local suppliers, and ensuring that skilled and unskilled labor from the host and neighboring communities are engaged throughout the project’s duration.
On behalf of the community, Okuku acknowledged the magnanimity of landowners displaced by the project and called for fair compensation from the relevant federal agencies.
The visit was attended by several dignitaries, including High Chief Sam Odibo, Otota of Udu Kingdom, Rt. Hon. Apunu Henry, the Leader of Udu Legislative Arm and Evangelist Andrew Dokie, the UUC President General, along with Chiefs from Udu Palace and other neighboring communities.
The Federal Medical Center, once completed, will provide critical healthcare services to the region and is expected to enhance the well-being of the people in Udu and its surroundings.
