Tinubu’s Assent to FMC Oleh Bill Ends Decades of Federal Neglect – IDU President
The President of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), Prof. Chris Akpotu, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Oleh, describing the development as a historic breakthrough that ends decades of perceived federal neglect of the Isoko people in Delta State.
Speaking during AIT’s Kaakaki programme on Thursday, Akpotu said the presidential assent has restored hope and strengthened the Isoko people’s sense of belonging within the Nigerian federation after years of inadequate federal presence in the area.
Tinubu’s Approval Restores Hope in Delta South
According to the IDU President, the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre in Oleh represents a major milestone for the people of Delta South Senatorial District, particularly the Isoko ethnic nationality.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the legislation, saying the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to equitable development across the country.
“This is one moment the people of Delta South Senatorial District, especially the Isoko people, will continue to celebrate because it reflects our long history of deprivation.
“For once, we have been made to believe that we truly belong to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and now have a reason to celebrate federal presence in our land,” Akpotu stated.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas Commended for Sponsoring the Bill
Prof. Akpotu praised Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, who represents Delta South Senatorial District, for sponsoring the bill that eventually became law.
He described the senator as a responsive lawmaker who understands the developmental priorities of his constituents and commended members of the National Assembly for supporting the legislation.
The IDU President also acknowledged the Nigerian Senate for passing the bill and ensuring it reached the President for assent.
“When the bill was passed by the Senate, we hoped it would not end like many others that never received presidential assent. We thank God that President Tinubu renewed our hope by signing it into law,” he added.
FMC Oleh Expected to Improve Healthcare and Create Jobs
Akpotu noted that the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre will significantly strengthen healthcare delivery in Delta South while creating employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.
He explained that the project will generate jobs during both the construction phase and full operation, providing opportunities for engineers, contractors, healthcare professionals, administrative personnel, and support staff.
According to him, the facility will also improve access to quality medical services, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for specialized healthcare.
Isoko People Deserve Greater Federal Presence
The IDU President lamented that despite Isoko’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and national economy, the ethnic nationality has historically received limited federal infrastructure and political appointments.
He argued that the Isoko people have contributed immensely to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and foreign exchange earnings but have not enjoyed commensurate federal recognition.
“You cannot discuss Nigeria’s GDP or foreign reserves without acknowledging the contributions of the Isoko people. Yet, for decades, we have had little or no federal presence to celebrate,” he said.
Akpotu further observed that the Isoko nation has neither produced a federal minister nor headed key agencies such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), making the approval of the Federal Medical Centre particularly significant.
Call for Immediate Commencement of Construction
While applauding the President’s approval of the bill, Akpotu appealed to the Federal Government to ensure the immediate commencement of construction work on the medical facility.
He assured that the Isoko Development Union would continue collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation and timely completion of the project.
“We appeal to Mr. President to ensure early commencement of construction so that this historic gesture translates into tangible benefits for our people.
The IDU will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure the project comes to fruition,” he said.
