By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: The dream of establishing a world-class medical university in Delta State took a significant step forward as the groundbreaking ceremony for the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, was held today.
This milestone, championed by former Deputy Senate President Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, marks a turning point for medical education in Nigeria.
Senator Omo-Agege’s relentless push for the university’s establishment has been hailed as a game-changer for the healthcare sector. His advocacy began with engagements with former Minister of Education Mallam Adamu Adamu and former President Muhammadu Buhari, culminating in the initial approval for the institution. Even after leaving office, he continued to lobby for the project, securing further endorsement from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“This university is not just an institution; it is a beacon of hope for our people,” Omo-Agege said at the ceremony. “Ndokwaland, which has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s economy, has long been neglected. Today, we are correcting that historical oversight.”
The Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, is expected to provide high-quality medical training, address Nigeria’s shortage of healthcare professionals, and improve access to healthcare in underserved regions.
The project has been widely praised as a strategic move to boost medical education and expand opportunities for students seeking careers in medicine and healthcare sciences.
Stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and educationists, have urged residents to take ownership of the institution’s development. “This is a legacy project for our people,” said a local leader. “It is our duty to ensure its growth and sustainability for future generations.”
With construction now officially underway, the vision of a thriving medical education hub in Delta State is becoming a reality.
The success of this institution could set a precedent for other underserved regions, proving that strategic leadership and perseverance can drive meaningful development.