Delta Targets Health Workforce Crisis With Ovrode College
Delta Moves to Tackle Health Workforce Shortage with Ovrode College
Strategic Investment in Human Capital
THE Delta State Government has intensified efforts to address persistent manpower shortages in the health sector through the ongoing development of the College of Health Technology in Ovrode, Isoko North Local Government Area.
During an inspection of the project, the Commissioner for Health, Joseph Onojaeme, reaffirmed that the institution is central to the state’s long-term strategy of building a resilient healthcare system driven by skilled personnel.
He was joined on the visit by senior government officials, including Charles Aniagwu and Festus Ahon, underscoring the administration’s multi-sectoral commitment to the project.
Bridging a Critical Skills Gap
Onojaeme highlighted a troubling gap in the availability of qualified healthcare workers, particularly in specialised areas. He disclosed that recent recruitment exercises revealed a severe shortage of applicants, with only two candidates applying for about ten radiography positions.
The development, he noted, poses a risk to the effective operation of emerging health infrastructure, including a radiotherapy centre nearing completion, which requires specialised expertise such as interventional radiographers.
“The need is urgent,” the commissioner said, stressing that the Ovrode college is expected to produce middle-level healthcare professionals who will support both primary and advanced medical services across the state.
Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure, Limited Workforce
The workforce deficit comes at a time when Delta State is expanding its health infrastructure. Facilities such as the mental health centre and the upgraded General Hospital in Orerokpe are nearing completion, while previously abandoned projects like the Mother and Child Hospital in Ekpan are now ready for use.
However, without adequate staffing, these investments risk underutilisation.
Onojaeme noted that graduates from the Ovrode college would play a critical role in filling these gaps, ensuring that infrastructure development translates into improved service delivery.
Addressing Brain Drain and Retention Challenges
Beyond training, the state is also tackling the challenge of retaining healthcare professionals amid rising migration trends, often referred to as the “Japa syndrome.”
To improve retention, the government has introduced incentives, including an annual support grant of ₦951,400 for resident doctors. The commissioner described the initiative as a proactive measure to strengthen the local workforce and reduce reliance on external recruitment.
Outlook: From Infrastructure to Impact
With construction progressing steadily, the government expressed optimism that the college would commence academic activities shortly after commissioning.
Officials believe the institution will not only address immediate staffing shortages but also create a sustainable pipeline of healthcare professionals, positioning Delta State to meet growing healthcare demands.
