By ZAKAA LAZARUS, ABUJA
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), has strengthen ties with the Ministry of Health Rivers State to address health and environmental challenges in the state.
The Project Coordinator, Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, who play host to the Commissioner of Health River State, Dr Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, during a courtesy visit to his office said the visit is focused on fostering deeper collaboration between the state government and HYPREP, particularly to strengthen partnerships that will improve the lives of the host communities.
He said HYPREP’s soon to be commissioned Cottage and Specialist Hospitals in Ogoni land will greatly improve access to quality healthcare services in the area.
Prof. Zabbey also confirmed that the Rivers State Government, through the Ministry of Health and the Hospitals Management Board, are committed to assist HYPREP in enssuring 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.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.
“This visit signifies a shared vision toward actualizing comprehensive health interventions. Could you expand on the collaboration between the Rivers State Government and HYPREP regarding these health mandates.
“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. From the outset, the Ministry of Health has been an integral stakeholder in our framework.
“We have strengthened four hospitals in Ogoni land and are currently developing the Ogoni Specialist Hospital and the Bodo Cottage Hospital.
“I also informed the Honorable Commissioner today about the launch of a comprehensive public health study in Ogoni land this year.
“This study, led by the World Health Organization (WHO), will span three years and explore the relationship between hydrocarbon contamination and public health outcomes.
“We will need the support of the Rivers State Ministry of Health to undertake this important study.Additionally, we discussed findings from our ongoing medical outreach programs in Ogoni.
“These initiatives have revealed a notable prevalence of visual impairments among residents.
“I have requested the Honorable Commissioner to consider deploying eye care specialists to address these challenges.
“HYPREP’s Broader Health and Water Initiatives are committed to working collaboratively to provide robust and sustainable health solutions for the people of Ogoni land.
” It’s important to note that the hospitals in Ogoni are open to everyone, and the positive impacts of these initiatives will extend beyond Ogoni.
“Beyond healthcare, we discussed the connection between access to potable water and public health. HYPREP has been actively providing potable water schemes across Ogoni.
“In the next three weeks, the Honorable Minister of Environment, who is also the Chairman of HYPREP’s Governing Council, will commission two major water schemes.
“For instance, the Bori Water Project will supply potable water to seven communities.
“By the end of this year, we anticipate that about 70 additional communities in Ogoni will have access to potable water.We remain focused on our mission to deliver sustainable, effective public health and development solutions for Ogoni and the surrounding communities,” Prof. Zabbey assured.
On her part, the Commissioner of Health Dr. Adaeze Oreh said the visit is a demonstration of River State unwavering commitment to ensuring that the health and well-being of affected communities are prioritized.
Dr. Adaeze said her ministry is working closely with HYPREP, to achieve sustainable development in these areas.
The visit was capped with a shared vision to enhance collaboration for the benefit of the communities with such partnerships taking center stage, the path toward a healthier environment and community seems bright in Ogoni land and Rivers State in general.
